In a time of rising global tensions over oil and gas, France is reconsidering whether to restart oil exploration within its borders to boost its energy independence. The country has potential resources to explore, especially near the French overseas territory of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, which lies in the Atlantic Ocean. This move comes as global energy dynamics have shifted, particularly after the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil. This event has prompted many nations to rethink their energy strategies, even as oil and gas continue to be crucial for most societies worldwide. The blockage of the Strait of Hormuz has changed how oil and gas are explored and distributed globally. While some countries have focused on increasing their use of electricity and renewable energy, oil and gas still play a central role in most economies. As a result, nations are seeking alternatives to reduce their reliance on hydrocarbon imports from the Middle East. France and the European Union are increasingly looking to Canada as a potential partner, with Canada possibly becoming an associated EU member. Canada holds the third-largest hydrocarbon reserves in the world, following Venezuela and Saudi Arabia, and is also among the top oil and gas producers globally. One of Canada’s key oil-producing regions is near Sable Island, which is located just a few nautical miles from the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon. This proximity suggests a potential link between Canadian and French energy resources. The French EEZ near Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, covering 12,400 square kilometers, is believed to contain hydrocarbons. In 2001, a well called Bandol-1 drilled in the area revealed the presence of reservoirs, and estimates suggest that the region could hold between 1 and 1.5 trillion cubic feet of gas, or more than 30 billion cubic meters. Despite these potential resources, France has been prohibited from conducting oil exploration on its territory since 2017 under the Hulot law, which aims to protect the environment and reduce fossil fuel use. This law, while environmentally motivated, has left France dependent on importing hydrocarbons, even though it may have its own reserves. The situation is similar to what is happening in southwest France, though the quantities of gas involved in Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon are much larger. This has led to ongoing debate about whether France should reconsider its energy policies to better align with its resource availability and energy security needs.