Link to article: https://www.france24.com/en/middle-east/20260314-french-soldier-killed-by-iran-made-drone-was-in-iraq-on-anti-jihad-operation
A French soldier was recently killed in Iraq by an Iranian drone in Kurdistan, Iraq. The deployment in this area was to help combat a resurgence of ISIS in the region. Following the recent downsizing of the unit and movement of its station from Baghdad to Erbil, the state of the mission has been more unstable. The boiling over of conflict in Iran has only increased pressure on the situation in Kurdistan and the surrounding region. Since the conflict started many pro-Iranian factions have attacked and left an impact. The French soldier mentioned was killed in one of these attacks while 6 others were injured. France is now claiming to be adjusting its posturing towards the situation in response. Many other attacks have followed attacks like this one. With some withdrawing personnel in hopes of maintaining safety.
With only increasing lashing out from Iran in the Middle East, I would not be surprised if we see more similar headlines to this. The current state of the Middle East is quite unpredictable, but it is highly likely that Iranian drone strikes will continue to pepper Western forces. Many more from Europe and the US will likely die. If more forces pull out it could also lead to a resurgence of ISIS and make their current issues even worse. France should either put more troops on the ground or pull out entirely, because if they don’t there will be a lot more unnecessary casualties. All European countries involved should consider if they are willing to deal with Israel and the US’s war with its downsides.
This article connects to what we learned about treaties and trade agreements. Europe needs protection and help from the United States militarily and economically, so Europe’s agreement to help prevent ISIS is likely spurred from a similar treaty. Control over the natural resources of the Middle East is a major component that is causing these countries involvement, influencing the treaties and decisions made.