Ongoing escalation dangerous for all, says French President Macron
Paris, Feb 28
French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday warned that the outbreak of fresh conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran would have severe consequences for international peace and security.
He emphasised that all measures are being taken to ensure the security of French citizens and safeguard the nation's interests in the Middle East.
Macron called on Iran to halt its nuclear and ballistic programmes and end destabilising activities in the Middle East, calling it vital for regional security.
"France also stands ready to deploy the necessary resources to protect its closest partners, should they request it. The ongoing escalation is dangerous for all. It must stop. The Iranian regime must understand that it now has no other option but to engage in good faith in negotiations to end its nuclear and ballistic programmes, as well as its regional destabilisation activities. This is absolutely necessary for the security of all in the Middle East," the French President posted on X.
"The Iranian people must also be able to freely build their future. The massacres committed by the Islamic regime disqualify it and demand that the voice be returned to the people. The sooner, the better. Faithful to its principles and aware of its international responsibilities, France is calling for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council. I am in close contact with our European partners and friends in the Middle East," he added.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday confirmed that Israel and the United States had carried out a joint military operation, dubbed 'Operation Lion's Roar', against Iran, describing the action as necessary to remove what he termed an "existential threat" posed by the Iranian regime.
In a video address to the nation, Netanyahu said the operation was launched to counter the danger emanating from Tehran.
"My brothers and sisters, citizens of Israel, just an hour ago, Israel and the United States embarked on an operation to remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran," he said.
The development raises concerns of a widening confrontation that could have far-reaching geopolitical and economic consequences. Iran, in turn, launched ballistic missiles at Israel, the Israeli military confirmed.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is very worrying. A full-blown conflict will send oil prices through the roof and hurt our economy badly. Our government should use its good relations with both sides to urge restraint. Diplomacy is the only way.
"Operation Lion's Roar" sounds like something from a movie. The reality is people will die. The West lectures about peace but is always ready for joint military ops. Where is the UN in all this? It seems utterly powerless.
Respectfully, while Macron's concern is valid, his statement feels one-sided. He calls for Iran to halt its programs but doesn't address the root causes or the actions of other actors. A lasting solution needs a balanced approach, not just demands on one country.
Our priority should be the safety of the large Indian diaspora in the Gulf region. MEA must have contingency plans ready. Hope our foreign policy navigates this wisely without getting dragged into anyone's bloc.
The Iranian people deserve peace and a better future, as Macron said. But external military strikes only strengthen the hardliners. The cycle of violence helps no one. Feeling anxious for the region and the world. 🙏
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.