US-Israel tensions with Iran escalate in the Middle East region

French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed concerns over the ongoing conflict in Iran, stating that the operation was executed outside the framework of international law. He has also placed primary responsibility for the outbreak of the conflict on Iran.

Macron’s stance is seen as a delicate balance between condemning the strikes and maintaining diplomatic relations with other nations involved. According to Laure Foucher, a researcher at the Fondation pour la Recherche Strategique, Macron’s position recognizes that the operation was carried out without international law, while also acknowledging Iran’s unwillingness to compromise.

The French government has expressed skepticism towards militarized action aimed at regime change in the region, citing past experiences such as Iraq. The public sentiment is that the US and Israel’s attacks on Iran are unjustified.

In response to the escalating conflict, France is deploying 10 warships to the eastern Mediterranean, Red Sea, and Strait of Hormuz. Macron has stated that this deployment is an escort and support mission, aimed at securing key shipping lines and protecting French citizens.

The French government is also calling for the creation of an international coalition to secure commercial shipping paths essential to the global economy. Adele Supau, a 23-year-old Paris resident, expressed her desire for France to take a stronger stance against US and Israeli attacks, citing the need for EU countries to stand up against Trump’s actions.

The conflict may also strain French alliances in the region, particularly with Gulf states, which have defense agreements with France. Foucher noted that the situation could lead to an escalation of tensions, particularly regarding the Gulf states.

Source: Al Jazeera