The Iran war requires a serious approach that does not change every day, Emmanuel Macron has said, in an apparent reference to US President Donald Trump’s seemingly contradictory remarks about the conflict.
This is not a show. We are talking about war and peace and the lives of men and women, the French president told journalists upon arrival in South Korea for a state visit.
When you want to be serious you don't say every day the opposite of what you said the day before, Macron added. And maybe you shouldn't be speaking every day. You should just let things quieten down.
Macron was answering questions on the US-Israel war in Iran, now entering its second month. France and other European countries have supported some US operations in the region but have resisted getting dragged into the war.
Trump and his administration have offered mixed messages on the conflict, at times suggesting a ceasefire was near or claiming victory, while at other moments indicating ongoing military actions.
Macron also addressed Trump's recent comments about considering NATO membership, noting, Alliances like NATO are valuable because of what is unspoken – meaning the trust behind them. He warned that undermining such commitments empties them of their substance.
Macron emphasized that true partnerships manifest through actions rather than daily rhetoric, saying, I feel like there is too much chatter, it's all over the place.
He expressed his reluctance to comment on operations decided unilaterally by Trump and Netanyahu, stating, It's not our operation. Macron has highlighted the need for international observers to monitor Iran’s nuclear development to prevent future conflicts.
Trump has targeted France for not providing sufficient support in the Iran conflict. In a recent private gathering, he mocked Macron, implying that his wife Brigitte treats him poorly. Macron dismissed these remarks as neither elegant nor up to standard, indicating they did not warrant a response.
The comments have triggered backlash in France, garnering unexpected defense even from critics of Macron, who found Trump's remarks unacceptable.
As tensions rise, Iran's recent actions, including closing the Strait of Hormuz, add urgency to diplomatic discussions, but Macron warned against unrealistic military solutions, citing significant risks involved.
