France will begin facilitating the evacuation of its nationals from the Middle East as the Iran war enters its fourth day. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced that flights are being prepared to bring vulnerable citizens home. Approximately 400,000 French nationals are located in Gulf countries targeted by Iranian drones and missiles.
Many countries have closed their airspace, complicating departures. Barrot emphasized the priority is the safety of French citizens and interests, alongside de-escalation. A census of French travelers is underway via the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs' Ariane portal. Tens of thousands are stranded following the closure of airspace after joint US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Several nations, including the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, and the UK, are also organizing evacuation flights for their citizens.