France focuses on defense, avoids war in the Middle East — Al Jazeera
French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin said that France does not plan to take part in a potential war involving the United States and Israel against Iran. Paris is prioritizing diplomacy and a defensive strategy to avoid escalation. The main goal is to restore stability and find a peaceful solution to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, Al Jazeera reports.
France is refusing to be drawn into a military conflict in the Middle East despite rising tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Vautrin stressed that French forces will act only in a defensive capacity and will not participate in offensive operations.
“The goal, I repeat, is to facilitate the diplomatic path,” Vautrin said in an interview with Europe 1 and CNews. She emphasized that France is focused on finding a peaceful resolution that would prevent further escalation and new strikes in the region.
Special attention is being paid to the situation around the Strait of Hormuz. Vautrin noted that “the objective is a diplomatic solution, which alone can guarantee a return to peace. Many countries are concerned about the situation, and it is extremely important to find a solution.”
A blockade of the strait — a critical route for global oil exports — could have serious economic and political consequences. Paris is therefore betting on negotiations rather than military force.
France has long pursued a strategy combining defense and diplomacy. The country supports international efforts to monitor the situation, tracks developments in the region, and ensures that its forces are ready to protect its territory and allies.
At the same time, Vautrin stressed that any military action by France would be exceptional and strictly aimed at preventing threats rather than escalating the conflict.
French officials underline that diplomacy remains the only effective tool for stabilizing the region. France continues to work closely with its allies, including the United States and EU countries, to find a compromise solution and restore security in the Persian Gulf without being drawn into another war.
Oil prices edged higher after a pause in U.S. policy decisions on Iran, CNN reports.
High oil and gas prices: who benefits from tensions involving Iran?
Seven vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz over the past two days, according to TRT.
