Iran criticizes France over silence on US-Israel actions in region

The spokesman for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Esmaeil Baghaei, strongly criticized France for what he called “Orwellian doublespeak” and for staying silent on US and Israeli actions in Palestine, Lebanon, and Iran.

In a post on X, Baghaei said French authorities are remaining “acquiescent” despite what he described as clear violations of international law. He mentioned the situation in Palestine, ongoing attacks in Lebanon, and the US-Israeli war on Iran.

He questioned why France is asking Iran to reduce tensions. “they call on Iran to de-escalate!!,” he said, adding, “Did Iran initiate this [US-Israel] war?! Why don’t you call out the aggressors?!”

Baghaei compared the situation to World War II, saying, “This is akin to urging the French Resistance during World War II to de-escalate in the face of the Nazi invasion of #France.”

His comments came after French President Emmanuel Macron asked Iran to take part in “negotiations in good faith in order to open a path toward de-escalation.”

Macron made the statement after speaking with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. He said diplomacy is the best way to reduce tensions and called for a framework to address concerns about Iran’s nuclear and missile programs.

He also urged Iran to stop attacks in the region and to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran has said that ships from countries not involved in the conflict can pass through the strait freely.

Iran says its recent actions are in self-defense after what it calls unprovoked attacks. It has warned that it may target US military bases in the region if aggression continues.