French Strikes in Syria Prompt Clash Between Jean-Luc Mélenchon and Sébastien Lecornu
The French defense minister defends targeted strikes against ISIS, while the leftist leader criticizes the lack of parliamentary involvement.
- France conducted targeted airstrikes in Syria as part of the international coalition 'Inherent Resolve' against ISIS, marking its first such action in two years.
- Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced the strikes, emphasizing their precision and alignment with France's ongoing Operation Chammal, which began in 2014.
- Jean-Luc Mélenchon criticized the strikes, questioning the lack of parliamentary consultation and accusing the government of unilateral decision-making.
- Lecornu rebuked Mélenchon's comments as 'irresponsible' and accused him of spreading 'political disinformation' about the military's actions.
- The strikes come amid concerns over a resurgence of ISIS activity following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December and a broader regional instability.