French Military Actively Intervened to Stop Iranian Attacks on Israel – Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu

French Military Actively Intervened to Stop Iranian Attacks on Israel – Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu
[France, June 26, 2025]

French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu has confirmed that the French military directly intervened during the final phase of the Iran-Israel conflict. He stated that French forces played an “active role” in intercepting Iranian drones targeting Israel.

During a parliamentary debate on the volatile situation in the Middle East, Lecornu said:

“I can confirm that in recent days, during Iran’s military operations, the French army intercepted fewer than ten drones launched towards Israel. These drones were destroyed using our ground-based air defense systems and Rafale fighter jets.”

Iran-Israel Recent War Statistics:

• Iranian attack: Over 1,000 drones and nearly 400 ballistic missiles were launched by Iran.

• Israeli response: A “targeted military operation” began on June 13, aimed at destroying Iran’s nuclear capabilities.

• Humanitarian toll in Iran:

  • Killed: 610 people

  • Injured: Around 5,000

  • Targeted: Military installations and nuclear scientists

• Iran’s retaliation: At least 28 people killed in Israel, hundreds of buildings damaged.

After 12 days of intense conflict, both sides agreed to a ceasefire on Tuesday. According to French officials, international diplomatic pressure and defense cooperation played a significant role in achieving the truce.

This statement highlights that Western powers are increasingly involved not just indirectly but through direct military action in the Iran-Israel conflict — pushing this already tense region into further uncertainty.