France: Hezbollah and Iranian-backed Militias Should Leave Syria

The French Foreign Minister called for the withdrawal of Iranian-backed forces and Hezbollah from Syria, accusing Tehran and Ankara of violating international law due to their actions in Syria. Jean-Yves Le Drian, in an interview with BFM TV, also reported 'indications' of the Syrian government using toxic gas against civilians, adding that these indications should be investigated by the United Nations. Reuters reported on Wednesday (February 7) that Le Drian, in response to a question about Paris's view on Turkey's military operations in Syrian territory, stated that all countries that should not be in Syria, including Iranian-backed military forces and Hezbollah, must leave the country. He also urged Turkey not to exacerbate the conflict in Syria. The French Foreign Minister added that ensuring border security does not mean 'killing civilians, and this must be condemned. In the dangerous situation in Syria, Turkey should not add war to war.' He accused Turkey, Iran, the Syrian central government, and groups attacking Idlib and Eastern Ghouta of violating international law. According to the report, his statements represent one of the strongest positions from Paris since Turkey's attack on the border areas shared with Syria. France has supported opposition forces throughout the seven-year civil war in Syria and has been part of the coalition against ISIS led by the United States. Le Drian is also scheduled to visit Iran on March 5 to discuss the nuclear agreement with global powers, Iran's ballistic missile program, and Tehran's role in the region. This visit comes as the United States pressures its European allies to adopt tougher stances against Tehran. Iran, a key ally of Bashar al-Assad over the past seven years, has stated that it will only withdraw its supported forces from the country at the request of the central government. Le Drian also mentioned the possibility of the Syrian forces using toxic gas in Russian-backed operations in Idlib province and Eastern Ghouta, stating that he speaks with a degree of 'caution' on this matter and that UN forces have begun investigations in this regard. Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, stated last year that the use of chemical weapons is a 'red line' for Paris, and any use of such weapons will result in immediate punishment for the perpetrators, at least from France.