Macron Makes Unannounced Solidarity Visit to Riyadh Amid Houthi Attacks

French President Emmanuel Macron paid an unannounced visit to Riyadh and met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Al-Yamamah Palace. The French presidency described the stop as a demonstration of solidarity with Saudi Arabia in the face of repeated attacks by Houthi forces.Macron’s appearance in the kingdom came during a broader Gulf tour focused on energy security. Saudi authorities agreed to extend additional diesel supplies to France for as many months as necessary, helping Paris diversify and stabilise its hydrocarbon imports. The two leaders also discussed expanded security cooperation and infrastructure projects designed to reduce dependence on contested maritime routes.France has already committed military assets to help protect key Saudi facilities, including the Red Sea port of Yanbu. The presidential visit reinforced that commitment at the highest political level and signalled that European partners remain engaged even as regional threats escalate.The brief stop in Riyadh highlighted the intersection of energy security, political signalling, and military reassurance at a moment of heightened tension across the Gulf.