France, the UK and Germany have put out a joint statement saying they will defend their interests and those of their allies in the Middle East if needed. It comes as Iran launches retaliatory strikes on Gulf countries. While Britain says it’s not at war, London is allowing the United States to use its bases for the ongoing operation against Iran.France, the UK and Germany have put out a joint statement saying they will defend their interests and those of their allies in the Middle East if needed. It comes as Iran launches retaliatory strikes on Gulf countries. While Britain says it’s not at war, London is allowing the United States to use its bases for the ongoing operation against Iran. France 24 – International breaking news, top stories and headlines