French foreign minister: Iran crackdown could be most violent in its contemporary history
France is sharply escalating its response to Iran’s violent crackdown on nationwide protests, warning that further repression will trigger additional consequences.
France’s ambassador to the United Nations, Jerome Bonnafont, said Paris has strongly condemned what it sees as an increasingly brutal response by Iranian authorities and is actively considering ways to help Iranians bypass a near-total internet blackout.
“This repression is extremely violent — even more so than before,” Bonnafont said, describing a dangerous escalation by the regime.
France is now studying whether to provide satellite communications support to help protesters regain access to information after Iran shut down internet services. The move comes as G-7 nations jointly warned they are prepared to impose new sanctions if Iran continues violating human rights.
France has already sanctioned Iranian police forces and more than 200 individuals, Bonnafont said, stressing the need to send a clear message both to the regime and to the Iranian people.
Meanwhile, France is pushing back on criticism that Europe is not pulling its weight on security. Bonnafont said European nations are rapidly increasing defense spending and taking greater responsibility within NATO — a position France has long advocated.
He pointed to Europe’s unified, large-scale support for Ukraine as proof, noting that France and the UK are working to organize a long-term security framework for Kyiv once peace talks become possible.
France is also backing its words with money. Bonnafont confirmed that France’s 2026 budget will include a major increase in defense spending, even as other areas face cuts.
At the United Nations, Bonnafont said France supports major reform, citing recently approved cuts of 20% of staff and 15% of funding — changes agreed upon by the U.S. and other member states.
“Yes, the U.N. must reform,” he said. “But yes, the world still needs it.”
The message from Paris is clear: Iran’s crackdown is being watched closely — and patience is running out.
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