France, Germany, UK say they didn’t participate in strikes on Iran, condemn Iranian attacks on regional countries

ISTANBUL

France, Germany and the UK on Saturday said that they did not participate in the US-Israel strikes on Iran, yet, condemned Iranian attacks on regional countries.

"We did not participate in these strikes, but are in close contact with our international partners, including the United States, Israel, and partners in the region. We reiterate our commitment to regional stability and to the protection of civilian life," French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a joint statement.

They also condemned Iranian attacks on countries in the region "in the strongest terms."

"Iran must refrain from indiscriminate military strikes. We call for a resumption of negotiations and urge the Iranian leadership to seek a negotiated solution. Ultimately, the Iranian people must be allowed to determine their future," the statement added.

Israel launched a “preemptive” attack against Iran early Saturday under the name “Lion’s Roar,” declaring a “special and immediate” state of emergency across the country.

US President Donald Trump later said his forces launched “major combat operations” in Iran aimed at “protecting the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime.”

The attacks come as talks between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear program had been ongoing under Oman’s mediation. A new round of talks in Geneva ended on Thursday.