PARIS, June 18 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that a lasting settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue can only be achieved through negotiation.
During the National Defense and Security Council meeting held on Wednesday, Macron reiterated France's commitment to engaging in uncompromising dialogue with Iran.
According to a press release of the Elysee, Macron also expressed his concern over the ongoing escalation between Israel and Iran, with Israeli strikes increasingly targeting targets unrelated to Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
"It is urgent to end these military operations, which pose serious threats to regional security," the Elysee said.
Macron has also instructed his foreign minister to take the initiative in the coming days, in close consultation with key European partners, to propose a robust negotiated settlement that would bring an end to the conflict.
Israel on Friday launched surprise attacks on Iran, including its nuclear facilities. Iran immediately retaliated by launching missile and drone attacks on Israel. The two countries have traded strikes on a daily basis since then. ■
