Yemi Olakitan
French President Emmanuel Macron today affirmed Israel’s right to defend itself following a wave of Israeli air strikes on Iran, while simultaneously urging “maximum restraint” from all parties to prevent further regional destabilization.
In a statement posted on X, Macron declared, “France reaffirms Israel’s right to defend itself and ensure its security.” He added a crucial caveat: “To avoid jeopardizing the stability of the entire region, I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to de-escalate.”
Macron’s comments came after he convened a meeting of France’s National Defence and Security Council. The high-level gathering reveals the gravity with which Paris views the escalating tensions in the Middle East. The President also emphasized France’s commitment to protecting its citizens and diplomatic and military assets in the region, stating, “All necessary steps will be taken to protect our nationals and our diplomatic and military missions in the region.”
The French President’s remarks follow a significant escalation of hostilities, with Israel reportedly pounding Iran in a series of air raids. These strikes, according to reports, targeted approximately 100 sites, including nuclear and military facilities, and are said to have resulted in the death of Iran’s armed forces’ chief of staff.
Earlier on Friday, France’s foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, echoed the call for de-escalation, posting on X, “We call on all sides to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that could undermine regional stability.”
The current surge in tensions unfolds against the backdrop of Iran’s gradual departure from its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal. This landmark agreement, which offered Iran sanctions relief in exchange for limitations on its atomic program, unraveled after the unilateral withdrawal of the United States under then-President Donald Trump in 2018. The escalating situation highlights growing international concern over the potential for a broader conflict in an already volatile region.