France Pledges Defense of Gulf States and Jordan Amidst Escalating Iran Conflict

Paris – France has affirmed its readiness to defend Gulf countries and Jordan against potential Iranian aggression, following a wave of missile and drone strikes launched by Iran. The commitment comes as tensions escalate dramatically in the region, triggered by a US-Israeli attack that resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

French Support and Collective Defense

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, speaking at a press conference in Paris on Monday, March 2, 2026, stated France’s “full support and complete solidarity” with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Jordan – all nations targeted by Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ missile and drone attacks. RFI

“It stands ready, in accordance with the agreements that bind it to its partners and with the principle of collective self-defense provided under international law, to take part in their defense,” Barrot declared. Le Monde

France estimates approximately 400,000 French citizens reside in or are currently visiting countries in and around the Gulf region.

International Alignment and Concerns

This pledge of support is aligned with a joint statement released on Sunday, March 1, 2026, by France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, expressing their readiness to defend their interests and those of their allies in the Gulf. Deccan Chronicle The statement condemned Iran’s “reckless attacks” and indicated potential action to “destroy Iran’s capability to fire missiles and drones at their source.”

However, Barrot also voiced criticism regarding the US-Israeli attacks on Iran, stating that such actions should have been debated within collective bodies like the United Nations Security Council to ensure legitimacy. The Times of Israel

Germany’s Position and Limitations

While expressing solidarity, German Foreign Minister Wadephul clarified that Germany does not intend to participate offensively in any potential campaign against Iran. The Times of Israel He emphasized Germany’s lack of military resources for such an undertaking and stated that the German military (Bundeswehr) would only engage in self-defense if attacked.

UK Support and Recent Strikes

The United Kingdom has agreed to allow the United States to utilize its military bases for launching attacks against Iran, following drone strikes targeting a UK base in Cyprus. Deccan Chronicle

Fresh strikes were reported across the Gulf on Monday, including in Dubai, Doha, and Manama, with Iran’s army claiming responsibility for launching 15 cruise missiles targeting a US air base in Kuwait and vessels in the Indian Ocean.

Nuclear Facilities and IAEA Assessment

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated it has no indication that recent attacks have damaged any nuclear facilities in Iran. The Times of Israel However, Iran’s ambassador to the IAEA, Reza Najafi, claimed that the Natanz nuclear complex was targeted in a recent attack.

The IAEA is seeking to re-establish communication with Iranian nuclear regulatory authorities, but has yet to receive a response.