French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday condemned US-Israeli military strikes on Iran, saying they were carried out “outside of international law” and could not be approved.
Addressing the nation, Macron said the conflict showed no immediate end. “Strikes will likely continue in the coming days to weaken Iran and destroy its counterattack capabilities. And in response, Iranian strikes in the whole region are expected to continue.”
To safeguard French interests, the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier was being deployed to the Mediterranean with fighter jets and air defence systems. “We will continue this effort as long as it is needed,” Macron said.
He stressed France’s commitments to allies in the region, saying the country stands “alongside France’s allies and the region to ensure their security and territorial integrity,” noting defence agreements with Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, while emphasizing strong commitments with Jordan and Iraq.
Macron also mentioned Cyprus, saying the island “requires our support” and that France’s “credibility” is at stake. About 800 French troops are stationed in the Gulf states.
The French leader spoke with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez following U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning of trade cuts after Spain refused U.S. military access to its bases.
At least 1,045 people have been killed in the U.S.-Israeli operation in Iran, according to the state-funded Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs. Attacks have affected 131 cities.
The Iranian education ministry reported that 186 students and teachers have died and 114 others were injured in attacks on schools across the country.