New York, June 14
France's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jerome Bonnafont has reaffirmed Israel's right to protect itself and ensure its security during the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Addressing the UN Security Council emergency session over the Iran-Israel conflict amid strikes and counterstrikes, the Ambassador stated that France has expressed many times its concern regarding the escalation of the Iranian nuclear programme. He stressed that the nuclear escalation of Iran is a threat to European Security interests and peace and stability globally.
"Iran's nuclear weapons would threaten the stability of the region and would bring with them the risk of further proliferation. The Iranian nuclear programme has never been so advanced as it is today, and it lacks any credible civilian justification. In recent days, Iran announced an increase in its enrichment capacities and the creation of a new infrastructure for that. And it continues its ballistic missile activity, which destabilises the region and can reach not only the region but also European territory," Bonnafont remarked.
France called for stability in the Middle East and urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to work towards de-escalation. Bonnafont, during the session, stated that France stands ready together with its partners to support efforts aimed at reducing tension.
"The commitment of France towards diplomacy is unwavering alongside its E3 partners (France, Germany, and the United Kingdom) and in close coordination with the US," he stated.
French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday strongly condemned Iran's nuclear programme and reiterated Israel's right to defend itself.
"France has repeatedly condemned Iran's ongoing nuclear programme and has taken all appropriate diplomatic measures in response. In this context, France reaffirms Israel's right to defend itself and ensure its security. To avoid jeopardizing the stability of the entire region, I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to de-escalate. Following the Israeli strikes on Iran and its nuclear programme, I convened the National Defence and Security Council this morning. All necessary steps will be taken to protect our nationals and our diplomatic and military missions in the region. All measures will also be implemented to ensure the protection of our national territory and our fellow citizens," he said in a post on X.
"France stands ready to work with all its partners to push for de- escalation in the Near and Middle East. Today, I spoke with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, the King of Jordan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, the Emir of Qatar, the German Chancellor, the British Prime Minister, and the President of the United States. Peace and security for all in the region must remain our guiding principle," the post further added.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday announced the launch of 'Operation Rising Lion' against Iran, a targetted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat of nuclear weapons to Israel's very survival. He asserted that the operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove the threat.
Tensions in the Middle East escalated further on Saturday as Iran launched a fresh wave of missile attacks on Israel. The renewed offensive comes amid a period of heightened hostilities between the two nations.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed the attack, stating that a barrage of projectiles had been launched toward Israeli territory.
In a brief statement, the military said, "another barrage has been fired towards Israel", though the total number of missiles and specific areas targetted were not immediately disclosed.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While France supports Israel's right to defend itself, we must remember how different the reaction was when India conducted nuclear tests for our security. The West applies double standards - what's acceptable for Israel is condemned when India does it. Our government should take note of this hypocrisy.
This conflict shows why India was right to develop nuclear deterrence. Look at our neighborhood - Pakistan has nukes, China has nukes. We need strong diplomacy but also the capability to defend ourselves when needed. Hope our MEA is watching this situation closely 👀
The West only cares about nuclear threats when it affects them directly. For decades they ignored Pakistan's nuclear program despite knowing the risks. Now suddenly Iran is a global threat? This selective outrage is frustrating for us in the Global South.
India should maintain a balanced approach here. We have good relations with both Israel and Iran. While nuclear proliferation is concerning, we must advocate for peaceful solutions. War benefits no one - look at how oil prices are already fluctuating! 🛢ï¸
Interesting how France talks about stability in Middle East but remains silent on China's nuclear buildup near Indian borders. The selective concern of Western nations shows their priorities aren't really about global peace but protecting their own interests.
As an Indian, I worry about how this conflict might affect our diaspora in the region and oil imports. Hope our government has contingency plans ready. Also, this shows why we need to speed up renewable energy projects - less dependence on volatile regions!
Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments on the article: We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.