Paris: French President Emmanuel Macron announced Tuesday that he has ordered the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, along with its air assets and escorting frigates, to sail to the Mediterranean, in response to the current situation in the Middle East.
According to Qatar News Agency, in a televised address, Macron emphasized the urgency of taking measures following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the emerging threats to the Suez Canal and Red Sea shipping lanes due to the escalating conflict. He stated, "We have economic interests that must be protected, as oil, gas, and international trade are heavily affected by this war."
Macron highlighted that France has deployed a frigate to Cyprus and intercepted drones over its Gulf allies' territories, utilizing Rafale aircraft among other assets. He reminded the public of France's defense agreements with Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates.
The President also noted France's efforts to assist its citizens wishing to leave the region, with two flights scheduled to arrive in Paris this evening. He assured that security measures have been reinforced at specific locations within France.
Macron attributed primary responsibility for the US-Israeli action to Iran but remarked that the United States and Israel undertook military operations outside the bounds of international law, a move that France cannot support.