War fears deepen as France, allies back Gulf States

2026-03-02 - 15:36

By Favour Ulebor, Abuja Tensions in the Middle East escalated as France and other Western nations voiced support for Gulf countries following a series of missile and drone attacks linked to the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. France declared it was ready to assist its regional partners if further attacks occur. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said Paris stands in solidarity with nations affected by Iran’s strikes. “To allied countries deliberately targeted by the missiles and drones of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards—Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Jordan—France expresses its full support and complete solidarity,” Barrot stated. He added that France could act under defence agreements and international law if necessary: “It stands ready, in accordance with the agreements that bind it to its partners and with the principle of collective self-defence provided under international law, to take part in their defence.” The crisis follows joint Israel-United States strikes on Iran, which triggered retaliatory missile and drone attacks across the region. France, Germany, and the United Kingdom warned Iran against further escalation, emphasizing their readiness to defend allies and interests. “Iran’s reckless attacks have targeted our close allies and threaten our personnel and civilians across the region. We will take steps to defend our interests and those of our allies, potentially through proportionate action to destroy Iran’s capability to fire missiles and drones at their source,” the statement read. The conflict has spread beyond Iran and Israel. A strike near the United States Embassy in Kuwait City was reported, though no casualties were immediately confirmed. In Iraq, a pro-Iran militia claimed a drone attack on U.S. troops at Baghdad Airport, while Cyprus reported minor damage from a drone strike on a British airbase. Israel and the United States continued airstrikes inside Iran, targeting military facilities. President Donald Trump reported that nine Iranian warships were sunk and key naval assets destroyed, with U.S. officials confirming the use of B-2 stealth bombers on strategic targets. Meanwhile, Hezbollah fired missiles from Lebanon into Israel. Israeli retaliatory strikes reportedly killed at least 31 people and injured 149 in Lebanon. Inside Iran, authorities said more than 200 people have died since the fighting began, while residents in Tehran remain indoors amid tightened security. In Israel, missile strikes hit areas including Jerusalem and a synagogue in Beit Shemesh, where nine people were killed and 28 injured. Rescue services reported that the national death toll has reached 11. President Trump warned that casualties may rise: “Sadly, there will likely be more before it ends.” The World Health Organization called for the protection of civilians and health facilities as humanitarian concerns grow. With attacks crossing borders and major powers signaling support for their allies, fears are mounting that the crisis could expand into a wider regional war.