France Condemns US-Israel Strikes on Iran as Violating International Law
Paris has issued a strong rebuke of the recent military actions taken by the United States and Israel within Iranian territory, asserting that the strikes are a violation of international law and lack clear strategic objectives. The condemnation comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and growing concerns about a wider regional conflict.
French Concerns Over Legality and Objectives
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated that the joint air strikes targeting Iran were carried out without a robust legal basis. He further emphasized the absence of transparent strategic objectives guiding the military operation. “France cannot approve attacks by US and Israeli forces on Iran because they are carried out outside international law and without clearly defined objectives,” Barrot said, according to Anadolu Agency.
Barrot articulated that, from the French government’s perspective, the series of attacks lacked measurable strategic targets, and the unilateral action did not align with globally recognized legal standards for resolving international disputes.
France Maintains Distance from Conflict
France has declared its intention to remain distanced from the armed conflict in the Middle East, ensuring its military forces will not participate in the operation led by Washington and Tel Aviv. “We do not approve of this war, and we are not participating in it,” Barrot affirmed, as reported by Anadolu Agency.
Call for De-escalation and Iranian Policy Shift
Despite its disapproval of its allies’ actions, France is urging immediate de-escalation in the region to prevent a broader conflict. Barrot specifically called on Tehran to alter its regional policies, which many parties view as provocative. “We hope Iran rids itself of its status as a destabilizing and dangerous power,” he stated.
According to Barrot, lasting peace in the Middle East hinges on Iran’s willingness to make fundamental changes in its diplomatic approach, including significant compromises at the negotiating table. “Tehran must commit to a radical change of attitude and major concessions to pave the way for a lasting solution in the region,” he added.
Securing the Strait of Hormuz
France is actively seeking international support to protect the vital trade route in the Strait of Hormuz. Barrot indicated that several countries have expressed interest in joining an international defense mission to secure the oil shipping route. “Potential participants include a number of European countries, but also countries in the region,” he explained, referencing an initiative previously proposed by President Emmanuel Macron.
Escalation and Retaliation
The current escalation began after Israel and the US launched a large-scale air attack on February 28. Iran responded with a wave of drone and missile attacks targeting locations in Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets.
French Military Deployments
In response to the deteriorating situation, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the dispatch of the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to the Mediterranean Sea. The frigate Languedoc and extra air defense systems are being deployed to Cyprus, as noted in China Daily. France also reported shooting down drones “in legitimate defense” in the early hours of the conflict, defending the airspace of its allies.