France to send aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean

France has decided to send an aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean due to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. In his address to the nation, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the Iran-centered conflicts carry the risk of escalating into a larger regional crisis, saying, "I have ordered the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, its air assets, and the accompanying frigates to move toward the Mediterranean."

Macron announced that France's military readiness level has been raised, noting that the frigate Languedoc has been deployed to the coast of Cyprus, additional air defense assets have been sent, and that Rafale fighter jets, air defense systems, and airborne early warning radars have been activated in recent hours. Stating that the escalation in the Middle East has entered a dangerous phase, Macron said that protecting both French military assets in the region and French citizens has become a priority, and that the decisions taken were shaped in accordance with security risks on the ground.

Two French military sites damaged

Macron also stated that the security risk on the ground has materialized, noting that France has shot down several unmanned aerial vehicles as part of its right to self-defense since the first hours of the conflict. Macron announced that two French military sites sustained material damage in limited attacks. It was stated that there were no casualties in the attacks.

Evacuations have begun

Stating that the evacuation of French citizens from the region has begun, Macron said, "Our priority is to ensure the safe return of our most vulnerable citizens to the country. The first two flights will arrive in Paris tonight."

Search for a coalition for maritime routes

Macron also drew attention to the risk to maritime trade routes. Pointing to the closure in the Strait of Hormuz and the pressure on the Suez Canal and the Red Sea, Macron said they have launched an initiative to form a coalition to restore security along these routes.

Using harsh language toward the Iranian administration, Macron said that Tehran's nuclear program, ballistic capacity, and relations with armed groups in the region are exacerbating the current situation. Despite this, Macron pointed to the diplomatic path for a solution, stating that a lasting result depends on a return to the negotiating table.