Here is a clear summary of President Emmanuel Macron’s national address on 3 March 2026.Response to the Middle East war
Macron focused mainly on the escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
Key announcements:
• France will deploy the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to the Mediterranean with escort ships.
• Additional military assets are being sent, including Rafale fighter jets, air-defense systems, and a frigate to Cyprus.
• French forces have already intercepted drones in self-defense protecting allied bases. 
Purpose:
• Protect French bases and allies in the region.
• Secure strategic shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal, and Red Sea, which are vital for global trade and energy supplies. 
Protection of French citizens
Macron emphasized the safety of French nationals abroad.
• Around 400,000 French citizens are in the Middle East.
• France has started evacuation flights for the most vulnerable.
• Security measures have also been reinforced inside France (e.g., increased military patrols). 
Macron’s diplomatic position
Macron tried to balance criticism of several sides:
• He said Iran bears primary responsibility for escalating tensions and condemned its nuclear program and regional militias.
• At the same time, he criticized U.S. and Israeli strikes for occurring outside international law.
• He warned Israel not to launch a ground invasion of Lebanon, calling it a dangerous escalation. 
Broader defense message (Europe and nuclear deterrence)
In related speeches earlier this week, Macron also announced:
• France will increase its nuclear arsenal for the first time in decades.
• Greater cooperation with European allies in nuclear deterrence and defense exercises.
• The goal is to strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy and security in a more unstable geopolitical environment. 
In short:
Macron’s speech aimed to reassure the public that France is not entering the war, but is strengthening military deployments, protecting citizens, and reinforcing European defense amid a rapidly escalating Middle East conflict.