Macron: France Not Involved in U.S.-Israel Military Offensive Against Iran
Macron’s remarks come after US President Donald Trump publicly criticized France, accusing Paris of being “very unhelpful” following its decision to ban overflights of aircraft carrying military supplies linked to the conflict.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — French President Emmanuel Macron said Wednesday that France has neither been consulted nor is participating in the ongoing military offensive against Iran led by the United States and Israel.
Speaking in an interview with Japanese broadcaster NHK during an official visit to Tokyo, Macron emphasized that France has maintained a consistent stance since the conflict began.
“It is absolutely true that France, which has not been consulted and is not part of this military offensive launched by the United States and Israel, is not taking part in it,” he said.
Macron’s remarks come after US President Donald Trump publicly criticized France, accusing Paris of being “very unhelpful” following its decision to ban overflights of aircraft carrying military supplies linked to the conflict.
The French president reaffirmed that his country’s stance has remained unchanged “since day one” of the war, emphasizing France’s commitment to an independent and predictable foreign policy.
Addressing a group of Japanese business leaders and investors in Tokyo, Macron acknowledged perceptions that Europe can act more slowly in times of crisis but argued that consistency is a strategic strength.
“I’m well aware that sometimes Europe can be seen as a continent that is slower than others,” he said. “But predictability has value.”
“We are where you know we will go,” Macron added, underscoring France’s steady diplomatic approach amid escalating tensions across the Middle East.
The exchange highlights growing transatlantic friction over the widening conflict with Iran, which has increasingly drawn in regional and global powers.