French Citizens' Representative Criticizes West Asia Conflict, Supports Neutral Stance
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Key Takeaways
Hong Kong/New Delhi, April 3 (NationPress) Marc Guyon, a representative for French Citizens Abroad in Hong Kong and Macau, referred to the current turmoil in West Asia as a "significant crisis" and urged for a swift conclusion to the hostilities.
In an interview with IANS, Guyon expressed his support for France's decision to refrain from joining the US-led military efforts, asserting that this conflict does not involve France, as the nation has not been attacked.
He stated, "This is a significant crisis that must be resolved quickly, as no nation can bear the financial burden of this war, including those in Asia." The ongoing turmoil in West Asia began on February 28, following military strikes by Israel and the US against Iran. In retaliation, Iran initiated drone and missile strikes targeting US and Israeli installations, regional capitals, and allied forces throughout West Asia.
When asked about France and the UK's choice to abstain from the US-Israel military operation, Guyon replied, "I don’t represent the French government, but I believe it's not our concern. We face numerous challenges in France, and now is not the appropriate time to deploy troops and potentially waste French lives in the Middle East."
He further added, "This is not our conflict. I can comprehend Trump's motivations; however, it doesn't imply I endorse them. I do not wish for French funds to be allocated for this war, nor do I desire French soldiers to be sent and risk their lives there... France has not been attacked, and therefore, I do not believe we should be involved."
On Thursday, French President Emmanuel Macron remarked that it would be "unfeasible" to undertake a military operation to secure the Strait of Hormuz.
Macron stated, "There are advocates for forcibly liberating the Strait of Hormuz through military action, a stance sometimes held by the United States. This is impractical as it would require excessive time and expose anyone navigating the strait to coastal threats from the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, who possess substantial capabilities, including ballistic missiles, in addition to other risks," as reported by Euro News during his State Visit to South Korea.
He concluded, "This can only be accomplished in cooperation with Iran. Therefore, a ceasefire must be established first, followed by a resumption of negotiations."