World

France's Macron urges Iran to end regional attacks

By AAP Newswire

Mar 16, 2026

French President Emmanuel Macron has asked Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to ‌end attacks against ‌countries in the Middle East whether directly or through proxies, including in Lebanon and Iraq.

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"I reminded him that France is acting within a strictly defensive framework ‌aimed at ‌protecting ⁠its interests, its regional partners, and freedom of navigation, and that it is unacceptable for our country to be targeted," Macron said in a post on X.

Macron also stressed the need for ⁠freedom of navigation ‌to resume in the Strait of Hormuz.

"Freedom of navigation in the Strait ‌of Hormuz must be restored as soon as possible," he said.

The French president said lasting stability would require a new political and security framework addressing concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile ‌program and regional activities.

"Only a new political and security framework can ensure peace and security for all," Macron said, adding that such an arrangement must guarantee Iran never acquires nuclear weapons.

"The unchecked escalation we are witnessing is plunging the entire region into chaos, with major consequences today and for the years to come. The people of Iran, like those across the region, are paying the price," he said.