France Criticizes US-Israel Military Actions, Offers Aid to Gulf Nations Amid Regional Escalation

Macron Condemns US-Israel Operations as 'Outside International Law'

French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a televised address on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, asserting that military operations launched by the United States and Israel against Iran were conducted 'outside international law' and could not be approved by France. His remarks underscored a growing international concern over the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The US-Israeli strikes against Iran reportedly commenced on Saturday, February 28, 2026, and have been linked to Iran's nuclear program, its support for regional proxy groups, and its handling of domestic protests. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot echoed President Macron's sentiments on Monday, March 2, 2026, stating that these 'unilateral strikes' should have been discussed at the United Nations and could only gain legitimacy through consideration by the United Nations Security Council.

France Pledges Support to Persian Gulf Allies

In response to the widening conflict, France has declared its readiness to assist Persian Gulf countries targeted by Iranian retaliatory strikes. Foreign Minister Barrot confirmed that any French support would be provided at the request of the affected states, delivered proportionately, and consistent with the principle of collective self-defense under international law.

The region has seen a surge in hostilities, with Iran reportedly launching drone and missile strikes against Israel and Gulf nations hosting US military assets. Notable incidents include:

• An Iranian drone strike on the French naval base Camp de la Paix in Abu Dhabi on March 1, 2026.
• A drone attack on the British airbase RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus on March 2, 2026.
• Reports of attacks in Dubai, Qatar, and Kuwait.

France maintains defense agreements with countries including Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates.

Escalation and French Defensive Deployments

President Macron highlighted that the conflict triggered by the US-Israeli strikes was spreading across the region, posing serious consequences for peace and security. To bolster regional stability and protect French interests, France is deploying significant military assets:

• The aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle is being dispatched to the Mediterranean Sea.
• Additional air defense assets and the frigate Languedoc are being deployed to Cyprus.

French forces have already engaged defensively in the early stages of the conflict, intercepting drones in self-defense to protect allied territories. Macron also called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council to address the crisis.