Former Manchester United forward Eric Cantona has gone viral after saying he wants to "create a law" that would impact Donald Trump in the ongoing US and Iran war. Since hanging up his boots, the Frenchman, now 59, has been involved within politics, while having also taken up a career as a musician.
Cantona was recently invited to appear on 'Clique', the Canal+ program, to promote his newest album release, 'Perfect Imperfection'. But instead, the chatter quickly turned to international issues, with the four-time Premier League winner having previously voiced his support for Palestine and having led speeches during campaigns.
The latest issue the retired footballer wanted to address regarded the US and Israel's continued efforts to neutralise Iran following the assasination of supreme leader Ali Khamenei. The conflict has now reached 12 days as there is no sign of resolutions as bombings take place across the Middle East, with the likes of Lebanon and Kuwait also being dragged into the turmoil.
Cantona Suggests 'New Law' Impacting Trump in Iran Conflict
Donald Trump
Donald Trump
As per Le Parisien, Cantona proposed a very specific - and original - idea to prevent the proliferation of global conflicts. He said (watch the full segment below):
"[There should be an] international law that would stipulate that if a president decides to go to war, he should be the first on the front lines, instead of sending 18-year-olds. And then, I think there would be far fewer wars."
“They’re [political leaders] all in offices 25 meters long, and then they send 18-year-olds to their deaths,” he denounced, citing Donald Trump as an example.
“When you’re the oppressor, you send 18-year-olds from your own country, but often the opposing side isn’t 18-year-olds. It’s 3-year-olds, 11-year-olds. Innocent people, civilians. Or soldiers. But there would be fewer wars if we did that, I think, because there aren’t many brave people."
Cantona concluded his tirade with a clear statement: "None of my children will go to war. Zero. What for? For whom? For what? The Unknown Soldier is just to encourage others to go."
Cantona's Previous Political Stances Shared at "Together for Palestine" Concert
Eric Cantona
Eric Cantona
The Frenchman has previously spoken up about political issues during a rally for Palestine in London last year. "FIFA and UEFA must suspend Israel,” he insisted at a time when it looked as though the Middle Eastern nation looked set to make a surprise run to World Cup qualification.
“Clubs and players everywhere must refuse to play against Israeli teams. We remember apartheid in South Africa. The sporting boycott was crucial in ending it. We have power, you have power. And all football fans have the power to leave the stands. I know that international football is more than just a sport; it’s cultural, it’s political. It’s soft power. The time has come to suspend Israel from this privilege.”