Le Monde reports European nations are justified in their reluctance to support a potential war between the U.S. and Iran, citing risks and lack of consultation.
European Reservations Regarding Potential Conflict
Several European countries have refused to support demands from the Trump administration, with Le Monde assessing their non-participation avoids entanglement in a war they did not choose.
The publication recalls longstanding strategic concerns that an attack on Iran could trigger the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by the Tehran regime.
U.S. Lacks Foresight, Justification for War
The newspaper criticizes U.S. authorities for a lack of foresight and argues that no direct threat justified initiating a war with Iran. It also notes the intervention does not fall within the defensive mission parameters of NATO.
Trump Accused of “Aggressive Unilateralism”
Le Monde accuses Trump of “aggressive unilateralism,” asserting he is responsible for the current situation due to his “policy of faits accomplis” and prior approach to European nations.
Lack of Consultation Fuels Distrust
The U.S. did not consult with European countries before escalating tensions with Iran, reportedly because it anticipated their opposition. This transatlantic divide is particularly regrettable given shared concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and recent suppression of protests.
Call for European Military Sovereignty
Le Monde argues that continued U.S. unilateralism should motivate European nations to pursue greater military sovereignty, which it deems “essential.”
Escalating Conflict and U.S. Demands
The conflict in the Middle East has been ongoing for nearly three weeks, with Donald Trump demanding allies support the U.S. regarding the blocked Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. Military Actions in Iran
Pete Hegseth, a U.S. defense official, stated that U.S. forces have attacked over 7,000 targets in Iran, with the goal of destroying Iranian military infrastructure to prevent its reconstruction. He affirmed that Iran will not acquire nuclear weapons.
Hegseth announced the largest package of strikes to date and revealed that families of fallen American soldiers in the Middle East advocated for continued attacks.
Defense Secretary Calls for Global Gratitude to Trump
U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth stated that a regime refusing to abandon nuclear ambitions poses a threat to America, freedom, and civilization, and that the world, including European allies and the U.S. press, should thank President Trump.
Decision on War’s End Rests with Trump
Hegseth indicated that the decision to end the war will be made by Donald Trump, based on the security of Americans.
Analysis: Iran’s Resilience and Trump’s Miscalculation
Ludwika Włodek of Wyborcza.pl writes that Trump underestimated the strength of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, despite perceiving a decline in their capabilities.
