French President Emmanuel Macron issued a special statement regarding the war, saying he "cannot justify the actions of the U.S. and Israel." According to him, France has sent Rafale fighter jets and air defense systems to assist in defending Gulf states that are under attack from Iran. The aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle will be accompanied by destroyers sent to the region. He also warned Israel against a ground operation in Lebanon: "It's their decision, but it would be a dangerous escalation and a strategic mistake." In addition, Macron said France will send air defense systems to Cyprus.