Macron warns Iran conflict "not totally over" despite US deal

French President Emmanuel Macron has welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran, while warning that it is too early to declare an end to the conflict and stressing the need for rigorous verification of any final agreement.

Speaking in an interview with France 2 on June 18, Macron said the accord marked the beginning of a new phase of dialogue but cautioned against premature optimism.

"I don't think we can say that this war is totally over," Macron said. He emphasized that the outcome of the 60-day negotiation period established by the memorandum would determine whether Iran emerges "less dangerous than before."

The French leader described the agreement as a preferable alternative to continued hostilities, arguing that "an agreement is always better than war," particularly in a region vulnerable to further escalation. He characterized the current stage as one of cooperation and dialogue rather than confrontation.

Under the memorandum, Washington and Tehran will spend the next two months negotiating key issues, including Iran's nuclear program, sanctions relief, oil exports, security in the Strait of Hormuz, the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and broader regional stability, including developments in Lebanon.

Macron noted that the agreement was signed under unusual circumstances during a dinner at the Palace of Versailles attended by US President Donald Trump. According to the French president, the signing occurred in a "spontaneous" manner and helped launch a new diplomatic phase. The ceremony underscored France's role as host and facilitator at a time when European powers have sought to maintain influence over discussions concerning Iran.

Assessing the impact of the conflict, Macron said Iran is now "militarily and nuclearly weaker," arguing that the balance of power has shifted before negotiations enter their implementation stage. At the same time, he stressed that Iran has not been neutralized and that the threat has not disappeared.

Macron reiterated that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons and said any lasting agreement must include credible verification measures covering enriched uranium stockpiles, future enrichment activities and guarantees against military nuclear development.

France, he said, will closely monitor implementation of the agreement while working with G7 partners to support regional stability, protect global energy security and ensure that diplomacy produces lasting results.

By Vafa Guliyeva