France Enters Conflict in Iran with a 'Strictly Defensive' Stance

France did not seek this war, yet finds itself drawn into a regional conflict in the Middle East with an uncertain outcome following the US and Israeli operation 'Epic Fury' against Iran on February 28. President Emmanuel Macron announced France's involvement in military operations with a 'strictly defensive' logic during a solemn address on March 3. He justified this as a responsibility to protect and restore peace as soon as possible. Since the start of hostilities, Iran has attacked Israel and US interests in the region while also targeting Gulf countries and Europe. On Monday, the British military base at Akrotiri in southern Cyprus was struck. Macron assured that a new situation is emerging, with continued strikes in the coming days to weaken Iran and destroy its retaliatory capabilities, and expected Iranian retaliation across the region.