Barrot on Middle East Conflict: France’s Response – FRANCE 24

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address escalating tensions in the Middle East, following a series of strikes and counter-strikes between Israel and Iran. The meeting is scheduled for 10 p.m. Paris time on Monday, according to a post on X by Barrot.

The move comes amid growing international concern over a potential wider conflict. Barrot, speaking at a press conference, also emphasized the need to “spare Lebanon from this regional escalation,” signaling fears that the conflict could expand beyond its current boundaries. This statement echoes earlier calls for restraint, made during a news conference in Beirut on February 6, where Barrot urged Iran-backed groups to exercise caution and Lebanon to avoid involvement in a potential war between Iran and the United States.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the recent military escalation, stating that the “use of force” by both the United States and Israel, as well as Iran’s “subsequent retaliation,” undermines international peace and security. Guterres invoked the UN Charter, which prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.

Reports indicate that Iran’s Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour are believed to have been killed in an Israeli strike, according to sources familiar with Israel’s military operations. Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has alleged that the same strike targeted a primary school for girls, resulting in numerous casualties, and vowed a response.

Barrot convened a high-level crisis meeting in Paris on Monday to address the rapidly deteriorating situation. The French Foreign Minister previously stated that a military escalation in the Middle East “is a risk we must avoid by all means,” calling on Iran to “make major concessions and to radically change its posture.” He has also criticized Iran’s nuclear program, missile development, and support for groups he described as “terrorist groups” that threaten regional and European security.

The Security Council meeting was requested by France, and will address the situation in both Iran and the broader Middle East. No immediate outcome from the meeting is expected, but it represents a key diplomatic effort to de-escalate the crisis.