French President Emmanuel Macron condemns US and Israeli actions against Iran as illegal while holding Tehran responsible for the regional conflict.
Macron’s Position on Iran Conflict
French President Emmanuel Macron stated at the beginning of his Tuesday speech that the United States and Israel, in launching attacks on Iran, “acted outside international law” and that France “cannot accept this.” At the same time, he stated that Iran bears responsibility for the situation.
Iran’s Nuclear and Military Programs
Macron emphasized that Iran “developed a dangerous nuclear program and possesses an unprecedented ballistic potential.” He also pointed out that Tehran has armed and financed terrorist groups in neighboring countries, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Houthi rebels in Yemen, and Shia militias in Iraq. “The goal of Iran is the destruction of the state of Israel,” he stated. Macron also referenced the bloody suppression of January protests in Iran, saying “History never mourns the executioners of their own nation and no one will long for them.”
France’s Defensive Measures
Macron mentioned that his country has defense agreements with Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates. He explained that France shot down drones in the first hours of the conflict in justified defense to protect the airspace of its allies. He confirmed the deployment of Rafale aircraft and air defense systems and mentioned that air defense has been sent to Cyprus, where the French frigate Languedoc will arrive in the evening.
Securing International Waterways
Macron emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz “is de facto closed” and that tensions also affect the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. “We have taken the initiative to build a coalition to combine means, including military, to restore and secure traffic on maritime routes key to the world economy,” the French president informed. He also announced the strengthening of security at French bases and embassies in the region.
Evacuation of French Citizens
Macron announced that France is organizing the return of its citizens who wish to leave, starting with those most in need. “The first two flights will be in Paris this evening,” he said. As previously reported, there are about 400,000 French citizens in 12 Middle Eastern countries, including people with dual citizenship.
Middle East Conflict Timeline
On Saturday (February 28), Israel and the United States attacked Iran. The target was primarily missile infrastructure, military facilities, and most important leaders. Among those killed was Ayatollah Ali Chamenei, who had ruled the country since 1989. Other high-ranking members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were also killed. The Iranian Red Crescent reports that at least 787 people have died so far.
Escalation in the Region
In the following days, Israel and the United States continued attacks, including on Tehran and its navy. Iran responded with extensive drone and missile strikes targeting government and military facilities in Tel Aviv and other locations. Attacks were also reported in other regional countries where US bases are located – Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait. US allies Oman and Saudi Arabia were also targeted. Iran was also accused of attacking a British military base in Cyprus.