Iran-Israel Conflict: French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that France will do all it can to avoid further escalation in the conflict between Israel and Iran in the Middle East, urging Israel to show “restraint in any response”.
It is to be further noted that Iran launched hundreds of drones and missiles at Israel on Saturday night in response to a suspected Israeli attack on Iran’s Syria consulate on April 1.
As reported by Reuters, Macron said, “We are all worried about the possible escalation of the Middle East conflict. The situation is very unstable at the moment. Iran has replied to Israel’s strike in Damascus in a disproportionate fashion.”
We have to stand by Israel’s side to ensure its protection as best as we can, the French President said, adding, “Will talk to Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu today, France is also in touch with other countries in the region.”
As reported by AP, Iran claimed that the attack was a retaliation for an airstrike, widely attributed to Israel, which targeted what Iran alleges were consular facilities in Syria and resulted in the deaths of two Revolutionary Guard generals earlier this month.
Also Read: Iran-Israel flare-up: What does it mean for India?
Israel reported that its anti-missile defence system, supported by the U.S. and Britain, intercepted the majority of the more than 300 drones and missiles launched by Iran overnight. Only one casualty, a girl wounded in southern Israel, was reported, and an Israeli airbase sustained minor damage from one missile strike.
Meanwhile, White House national security spokesman John Kirby told NBC that President Joe Biden “does not want an escalation in the regional conflict or a wider war with Iran, and is working on the diplomatic side of this personally.”
(With inputs from agencies)
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it’s all here, just a click away! Login Now!
Download The Mint News App to get Daily Market Updates.
Published: 15 Apr 2024, 01:56 PM IST
