France welcomes Israel-Iran ceasefire, calls for negotiations over nuclear and missile concerns

France says it “welcomes” US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran.

“This announcement must lead to a complete cessation of hostilities, which France calls on all parties to respect,” says France in a statement. “It is in everyone’s interest to avoid a new cycle of violence, the consequences of which would be catastrophic for the entire region.”

The statement comes as Israel promises to retaliate for an Iranian missile attack soon after the ceasefire went into effect.

“Iran must never possess nuclear weapons,” the French statement continues. “In this regard, France urges Iran to engage immediately in negotiations leading to an agreement that addresses all concerns related to its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and its destabilizing activities.”