Macron explained why France did not join strikes against Houthis
France has decided not to join the United States and Britain in striking the Houthis in Yemen to avoid escalation in the region.
This was stated by French President Emmanuel Macron, Le Figaro reports.
"Regarding the situation in the Red Sea, France adheres to a defensive approach and provides the basis for these actions," the French president said during a press conference.
According to him, the country's armed forces did not join the strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen to avoid escalation of the situation in the region. He also added that in recent days, the French army has participated several times in the interception of missiles flying towards Norwegian ships in the Red Sea.
As a reminder, Yemeni Houthis have been periodically attacking merchant ships in the Red Sea since November last year using attack drones, as well as ballistic and cruise missiles. The first attacks occurred after Israel launched its war against Hamas.
In response to the bombardment, the United States and Britain launched missiles at targets in Yemen associated with the Houthis. Despite this, the Houthis continued to attack ships off the coast of Yemen. On January 15, they attacked an American ship.
The United States and Britain have repeatedly warned that if Houthi attacks continue, attacks on their military facilities will be repeated.
Author – Anastasiya Glotova, 17/01/2024
