France is prepared to come to the defence of its regional partners if they request assistance following Iranian retaliatory strikes, Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said on Tuesday, stressing

that Paris reserves the right to intervene if necessary.

Speaking to French broadcaster BFM TV, Barrot warned that the conflict risks drawing in several countries across the Middle East where France maintains defence agreements, strategic interests and military bases.

“This war is pulling a number of states in the region into the conflict — countries with which we have close ties, defence arrangements and key interests, including military installations,” he said.

Barrot confirmed that French Rafale fighter jets have already conducted air operations aimed at securing the airspace above French bases in the region, underscoring France’s efforts to protect its forces and assets.

The foreign minister also highlighted growing concerns for civilians, noting that around 400,000 French nationals are currently living in countries affected by the escalating crisis. He said the government is prepared to evacuate those most at risk, using a combination of commercial flights and military aircraft if required.

France is closely monitoring developments as tensions continue to rise, with officials weighing both diplomatic and military options to safeguard national interests and citizens abroad. Photo by G.Garitan, Wikimedia commons.