Macron on Middle East: France Did Not Participate in Any Israeli Operations

France did not participate in any ‘defensive operations’ against Iran, as it was not requested, French President Emmanuel Macron stated today. He also dismissed the idea of Russia playing a mediating role between Israel and Iran. In April 2024, French forces conducted countermeasures against Iranian missiles and drones targeting Israel from a base in Jordan. However, relations between Paris and Tel Aviv have deteriorated since Israel imposed a blockade on humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. Speaking from Greenland, where he made a visit, Macron rejected the notion that Russian President Vladimir Putin could act as a mediator in the conflict between Israel and Iran. Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump had suggested this possibility on Sunday (15/6/25). Macron argued, “I do not believe that Russia, which is currently involved in a high-intensity conflict and has decided not to respect the United Nations Charter for years, can be a mediator in any way.” During his visit to Greenland, Macron expressed support for the autonomous region and constituent country of the Kingdom of Denmark, stating that the Arctic island is not for sale and will not be seized despite Donald Trump’s threats to do so. Macron warned that Greenland faces ‘predatory ambition’ and called for all Europeans to take notice.