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French President Criticizes US Strikes on Iran as Lacking Legal Justification

Oslo: French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday reiterated that the recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities lack any legitimate legal basis. "If one considers that there is legitimacy in neutralizing nuclear infrastructure in Iran, based on the objectives we share, there is no framework under international law that allows it. And so it must be said clearly: these strikes have no legal basis," Macron told a joint news briefing in Oslo with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store.

According to Anadolu Agency, Macron emphasized France's commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, advocating for a resolution through "diplomatic and technical means." He highlighted risks of escalation, mentioning nuclear proliferation and potential retaliatory strikes in the region. Macron also warned of significant economic impacts if Tehran were to close the Strait of Hormuz, which could lead to a "huge backlash."

Macron further stated that regime change in Iran should originate from the Iranian people, dismissing the idea of external powers enforcing such change. He expressed concern over regional leaders' lack of reassurance regarding the current situation and its potential consequences.

In alignment with Macron, Norwegian Prime Minister Store commended France's initiative to call for a high-level UN conference aimed at peacefully resolving the Palestinian issue and pursuing a two-state solution, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France. Store emphasized the necessity of political engagement over military solutions in addressing conflicts.

During Macron's two-day visit to Norway, the two nations announced the signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership, focusing on areas such as energy security, decarbonization, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, innovation, critical materials, health, and climate change.