Paris: France stands ready to defend its regional partners if formally requested, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Tuesday, emphasizing that any action would be 'proportionate' and in line with international law, as tensions escalate in the Middle East.

According to Anadolu Agency, Barrot reiterated that France is not automatically involved in the conflict triggered by Israeli and US strikes on Iran and Tehran's subsequent retaliation. He stated that any French involvement would adhere to the principles of collective self-defense, a principle of international law.

Barrot addressed concerns over a drone strike on a hangar at a French base in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), noting that there is no certainty that France was explicitly targeted. He cautioned against rushing to conclusions given the gravity of the situation.

He confirmed that French Rafale fighter jets stationed in the UAE had carried out airspace security operations over French facilities, with the mission to ensure their security. France maintains defense agreements with several countries, including the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait, with frequent exchanges at diplomatic and military levels.

Barrot highlighted the presence of around 400,000 French nationals in the region, comprising both long-term residents and temporary visitors, amid the ongoing crisis.

Turning to France's nuclear policy, Barrot described President Macron's latest address as 'a historic speech' marking 'a new step in our deterrence.' He announced plans to increase France's arsenal and initiate new cooperation forms with European partners under what Macron termed 'advanced deterrence.'

Barrot suggested that nuclear weapons or military capabilities could be dispersed across Europe, complicating adversary calculations, while stressing that ultimate authority would remain in Paris. The decision to activate nuclear capabilities, if needed, would rest solely with the president of the republic.