French President Emmanuel Macron met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Paris to discuss rising tensions around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. While the meeting focused on serious global issues, a short video clip from their greeting went viral online.
The moment, which seemed awkward, drew public attention. Netizens gave mixed reactions on social media platforms.
Viral clip catch attention
During the meeting in Paris, Macron welcomed Meloni with what seemed like a friendly hug. However, the interaction appeared slightly awkward, and Meloni looked surprised in the video clip.
This scene sparked discussion online, even netizens deeply look into their body language.
Social media reactions were mixed. One user wrote, “Nothing awkward. He said something very funny. She reacted. That’s all.” Another added, “I think he just seems very happy to see her, so he made a joke.” Another wrote, “her face tells the story no caption needed.” The moment quickly became a talking point, even though the meeting itself focused on serious global concern.
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Macron and Meloni had a rather awkward interaction today. pic.twitter.com/Hr9ZjUBELI
— Clash Report (@clashreport) April 17, 2026
France and UK plan Hormuz mission
At the same time, France and the United Kingdom announced plans to lead a multinational mission in the Strait of Hormuz. The goal is to protect shipping routes in the region. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Macron said the mission would be defensive and only begin after peace is restored.
“This will be strictly peaceful and defensive as a mission to reassure commercial shipping and support mine clearance,” Starmer said. He also mentioned that many countries are ready to support the plan.
The talks included representatives from 49 countries across Europe and Asia.
However, the United States and Iran did not take part, as both are directly involved in the ongoing conflict.
Tensions increased after Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz following the war with the US and Israel on February 28. This raised fears of inflation, fuel shortages, and disruptions in food supply worldwide.
Later, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that the Strait would remain open for commercial ships if the ceasefire continues, giving some relief to global markets.
Macron welcomed Iran’s statement but stressed the need for a “full, unconditional reopening by all the parties.” He said the mission would remain neutral and separate from the conflict.
Meloni said Italy is “ready to participate” but made it clear that the fighting must stop first. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also supported the plan and suggested that the United States should join the mission.
