Russia Condemns Israeli Strikes on Iran as Unprovoked, Macron Affirms Israel’s Right to Self-Defense
Russia condemns Israeli strikes on Iran as 'unacceptable', while France backs Israel's self-defense right but urges restraint. Global divide grows amid escalating Mideast tensions.
Erbil (Kurdistan24) – Moscow has strongly denounced the latest Israeli airstrikes on Iran, calling them “unacceptable and unjustified,” while French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for Israel’s right to self-defense, urging all parties to exercise restraint.
Russian Foreign Ministry: Violation of a Sovereign UN Member
On Friday, the Russian Foreign Ministry issued a firm condemnation of Israel’s military assault on Iranian territory. The ministry labeled the strikes as an “unprovoked attack” against a sovereign member of the United Nations and warned of their destabilizing repercussions on the broader region.
“These actions are absolutely unacceptable,” the Russian statement read, emphasizing that such use of force against a sovereign state constitutes a grave violation of international law.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov echoed the ministry's message, stating that Russia is “deeply concerned about escalating tensions” and strongly disapproves of Israel’s aerial operation targeting Iran.
France: Israel Has Right to Defend Itself
In contrast, French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed on Friday that Israel has the legitimate right to defend itself. Writing on the social platform X, Macron stated that France “recognizes Israel’s right to ensure its security and protect its citizens.”
However, the French leader also called on all sides to show restraint and refrain from further escalation. “All measures must aim at safeguarding the lives of civilians and the safety of diplomatic and military personnel in the region,” Macron added.
Regional Response Remains Polarized
The split in international response highlights a deepening rift among global powers over the legality and legitimacy of Israel’s military actions against Iranian targets. While Russia has framed the attacks as a clear breach of international norms, France, while calling for de-escalation, stood by Israel’s claim of self-defense.
The divergent stances emerge amid heightened regional tensions following Israel’s most recent air campaign targeting nuclear-related infrastructure in Iran, including facilities in Natanz, which Tehran claims sustained only superficial damage.
As the situation evolves, global attention is now focused on whether the confrontation will trigger wider regional conflict—or push international actors to step in diplomatically before further escalation occurs.
