French Foreign Ministry: Ready to Participate in the Defense of Gulf States and Jordan

Welat TV – Erbil

The French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed that no French nationals were killed or injured in the recent U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iran, stressing that France is “ready to provide assistance and support to its citizens if necessary.”

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, March 2, 2026, Barrot stated that approximately 400,000 French citizens reside or are temporarily present in around a dozen countries affected by rising tensions in the Middle East. He noted that the largest numbers are located in Israel and the United Arab Emirates.

The minister reaffirmed France’s support and solidarity with its regional allies, indicating that Paris is “prepared to participate in the defense of Gulf states and Jordan that were targeted by Iranian airstrikes,” in accordance with existing agreements and the principle of collective self-defense.

Call for De-escalation Following a meeting at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Barrot told reporters: “Everyone had the opportunity to assume their responsibilities, because the use of force can only gain the necessary legitimacy if brought before the United Nations Security Council.”He called for an “immediate halt to escalation” and urged Iranian authorities to “end their attacks and agree to make significant concessions.”