France may intervene in the Middle East to protect allied states if formally requested, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot said in a televised interview. He stated that diplomatic consultations are under way to strengthen the defence capabilities of several countries with French assistance, noting that France has defence cooperation agreements with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Lebanon.
Defence cooperation and regional presence
Mr Barrot said France retains the right to act in support of its partners should they seek assistance. When asked whether Rafale aircraft would be used to counter drone threats, he responded that the aircraft and their pilots are currently operating to protect French airspace above military bases in the region.
French nationals in the region
The Minister stated that approximately 400,000 French nationals are present across 12 Middle Eastern countries affected by the crisis, including at least 25,000 short-term visitors. French authorities are examining the possibility of arranging flights to assist the most vulnerable individuals in departing the region.
Mr Barrot also described the disarmament of Hezbollah in Lebanon as essential and necessary, expressing the hope that it would occur as soon as possible.
Shipping and economic monitoring
According to a representative of the French shipowners’ association, around 50 commercial vessels either flying the French flag or under French ownership remain immobilised due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
France’s Ministry of Economy has activated a crisis management unit to assess the potential economic impact of the Middle East crisis. A ministry spokesperson stated that, at this stage, there are no issues regarding the country’s energy supply.
Source: Cyprus News Agency