The French General Staff issued a statement to the Times of Israel, disputing reports about the deployment of American military assets at French bases in the Middle East. According to the statement, only support aircraft, not fighter jets, are permitted to use the Istres airbase in France. This clarification comes in the context of ongoing discussions about military cooperation and operations involving NATO forces.

In the same statement, the French military emphasized that it has not authorized any American military operations related to Iran from these bases, clarifying that the use of American aircraft is strictly for the defense of partner nations in the region. This strict policy underscores France's commitment to maintaining control over its military assets and their use in foreign operations, particularly in a volatile context like the Middle East.

The implications of this statement highlight France's strategic positioning within NATO and its attempt to balance cooperation with the United States while asserting its autonomy in military matters. This move may also reflect broader concerns within Europe about American military actions and their potential fallout in the region, especially amidst tensions involving Iran.