
French President Macron: No Justification for Attack on French Forces
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that a drone attack on a French military base in northern Iraq is 'unacceptable' and emphasized that France's stance on regional developments is defensive.
Speaking on Friday, March 13, during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris, Macron said a comprehensive military investigation into the attack will be conducted. He added that Paris's position is entirely defensive and there is no justification for targeting French forces. Macron also said he will discuss the incident with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and stressed that France is determined to protect its citizens and interests in the region.
The remarks follow a drone attack on a military base in northern Iraq, where one French officer was killed and six soldiers wounded. The French army had previously announced that the targeted base was the site of anti-terrorism training exercises involving French and Iraqi forces.
Meanwhile, a group known as 'Ashab al-Kahf,' considered close to Iran, has claimed responsibility for the attack on French interests in Iraq and the region.
Know more about this story?
If you have additional information or believe something is inaccurate, let us know. Your tips help us stay accurate.
Sources (1)
More in International

US National Counterterrorism Center Director Resigns Over War with Iran

US Authorities Arrest Afghan National Basir Ahmad Safi on Child Abuse Charges

Missiles and Drones Target US Embassy in Baghdad, Iraqi Security Sources Say

UN Secretary-General Guterres Urges Action Against Rising Islamophobia
ReliableUS National Counterterrorism Center Director Resigns Over War with Iran
Joe Kent, director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, resigned over opposition to the war with Iran, stating it poses no imminent US threat and stems from Israeli pressure. The move underscores growing criticism of the conflict amid escalating tensions.
ReliableUS Authorities Arrest Afghan National Basir Ahmad Safi on Child Abuse Charges
US authorities arrested Afghan national Basir Ahmad Safi, who entered the country in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, on child abuse charges following a prior conviction in Florida. He is now in ICE custody awaiting deportation, amid ongoing concerns over vetting in the resettlement program.
DevelopingMissiles and Drones Target US Embassy in Baghdad, Iraqi Security Sources Say
Missiles and drones targeted the US embassy in Baghdad early Tuesday, with Iraqi security sources saying two were intercepted and one struck the compound, causing smoke and fire. The attack, likely by Iran-backed groups, occurs amid rising regional tensions linked to Iran, the US and Israel.
ReliableUN Secretary-General Guterres Urges Action Against Rising Islamophobia
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the international community to combat rising Islamophobia on the International Day to Combat Anti-Muslim Hatred, rejecting fear narratives and calling for unity to eliminate hatred against Muslims. He highlighted increasing hate crimes amplified by online platforms and political debates, warning of threats to social cohesion.