French Foreign Minister says "Rafale" fighter jets are already flying over UAE military base
Xinhua News Agency, Paris, March 3 (Reporter Sun Yi) - French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian stated in a media interview on the 3rd that the French "Rafale" fighter jets deployed in the United Arab Emirates have conducted "airspace security operations" over French military bases.
Le Drian said on a French commercial FM television program that France has naval and air force bases in the UAE, and the mobilization of these "Rafale" fighter jets and pilots is to ensure the safety of French facilities, asserting that France "has the right to intervene."
On the 2nd, Le Drian stated at a press conference held in Paris that France is prepared to participate in the defense of Gulf countries and Jordan against Iranian attacks. He pointed out that France's involvement in the defense operations of Gulf countries and Jordan will be based on agreements between France and partner countries and will adhere to the principle of collective self-defense.
French Defense Minister Florence Parly said on social media on the 1st that a hangar at a naval base in Abu Dhabi was attacked by a drone, but it only caused limited material damage, with no casualties.
French Rafale fighter jets are conducting airspace security operations over military bases in the UAE as of March 3, 2023. The French government emphasizes its right to intervene to ensure the safety of its facilities. Additionally, France is preparing to assist Gulf nations and Jordan in defense against potential Iranian attacks. A recent drone attack at a naval base in Abu Dhabi resulted in limited material damage but no casualties.
- French Foreign Minister stated Rafale jets are conducting operations in UAE airspace.
- France has naval and air force bases in the UAE.
- The operations aim to ensure the safety of French facilities.
- France is prepared to assist Gulf nations and Jordan in defense against Iranian attacks.
- A drone attack occurred at a naval base in Abu Dhabi, causing limited material damage.