By Momodu Favour

French President, Emmanuel Macron has warned that the ongoing conflict involving Iran must be brought to an immediate halt, calling for renewed diplomatic negotiations as the war continues to destabilise global energy markets and push oil prices higher.

Speaking during a European leaders’ summit in Brussels, Macron stressed that the escalating violence in the Middle East is having “severe consequences” for global energy security and economic stability, according to officials present at the talks.

European leaders broadly echoed concerns that the conflict is tightening global oil and gas supplies and increasing volatility in energy prices.

Macron has repeatedly pushed for de-escalation, including calls to protect critical infrastructure such as oil and gas facilities, warning that continued strikes on energy assets risk worsening the global supply shock already affecting markets.

He has also urged all parties to resume negotiations and prevent further disruption to key maritime and energy route

The renewed push for diplomacy comes as global energy markets face significant strain from the conflict. Analysts warn that disruptions linked to the Iran-related war have already tightened oil supply, contributing to sharp price increases and heightened market uncertainty.

Reports indicate that attacks on energy infrastructure and instability around strategic shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz have raised fears of prolonged supply disruptions, with global oil flows significantly reduced in recent weeks.

Energy agencies and market observers have warned that without a political resolution, volatility in oil prices is likely to persist, with knock-on effects for inflation, transport costs, and global trade

Macron has positioned France as a leading European voice advocating for a diplomatic settlement, insisting that military escalation alone cannot resolve the Iranian nuclear and regional security issues.

French officials have been in contact with regional and international actors in an effort to prepare a post-conflict negotiation framework.

He has also called for broader talks addressing nuclear concerns, regional security arrangements, and guarantees for maritime navigation, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint.

The war’s spillover effects are increasingly visible across global markets, with economists warning of potential long-term shocks if the conflict expands or disrupts energy infrastructure further.

Governments in Europe and beyond are now preparing contingency measures, including strategic reserves and alternative supply routes.

For Macron and other European leaders, the message is clear: without urgent diplomacy, the conflict risks evolving into a prolonged crisis with direct consequences for global energy stability and economic growth.