WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump accused France on Tuesday of refusing to allow American military aircraft carrying supplies to Israel to fly over French territory, calling the decision “VERY UNHELPFUL.”
Trump made the remarks in a post on Truth Social as he criticized several European allies amid ongoing U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran that began with strikes on Feb. 28.
“The Country of France wouldn’t let planes headed to Israel, loaded up with military supplies, fly over French territory. France has been VERY UNHELPFUL,” Trump wrote. “The U.S.A. will REMEMBER!!!”
Details of the specific flights, timing of the alleged refusal and any impact on supply deliveries remain unclear. The White House did not immediately provide further comment.
The accusation comes as several NATO countries have distanced themselves from aspects of the U.S.-Israeli campaign. Italy recently denied landing rights to U.S. aircraft at its Sigonella base when flight plans appeared linked to operations against Iran, according to Italian officials. Spain has also restricted airspace use for planes involved in the conflict.
French officials have not publicly confirmed or denied the specific overflight refusal cited by Trump. President Emmanuel Macron has stated that France cannot approve the U.S. and Israeli military actions, which he described as conducted “outside international law.” France has emphasized it is not a party to the conflict and has limited its role to defensive measures, such as protecting regional partners.
Earlier in March, French military authorities said U.S. support aircraft—not involved in strikes on Iran—were permitted to use the Istres air base in France for refueling under strict conditions. France has also allowed temporary use of some bases in the Middle East for operational support while maintaining it would not host combat aircraft for offensive operations.
The tensions highlight strains within the transatlantic alliance as the conflict with Iran has escalated. Iranian retaliation included missile and drone attacks, contributing to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional instability. Casualty figures from the U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran have been reported at more than 1,340, according to some accounts, though independent verification remains limited.
Trump has pressed allies for greater logistical and operational support, including efforts to secure shipping routes, but several European governments have resisted direct involvement in offensive actions.
As of Tuesday, no formal diplomatic response from the French government to Trump’s remarks had been issued. U.S. officials have not detailed alternative routing for any affected supply flights or whether the overflight issue has been resolved through other channels.
The episode adds to a series of public disagreements between Washington and European capitals over the scope and conduct of operations in the Middle East.
