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.