France to send military to protect Saudi Arabia on Red Sea oil route, Macron says

France will send troops and defence systems to Saudi Arabia to help protect the Red Sea port city of Yanbu, a key location for energy transport, according to French President Emmanuel Macron. He made the announcement during a television interview, stating that the French military will deploy soldiers, radar systems, and defence systems to the area.

Macron emphasized that the French military deployment is intended to protect the site, not to engage in any conflicts. The port of Yanbu has been under threat from missile attacks by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis, which has led to a surge in crude oil prices.

Macron also warned about possible Russian attacks on French soil during the interview. According to Le Monde English, Macron emphasized that the French military did not intend to take part in any fighting.

Brief written by urgent.news from Al-Monitor, Daily Maverick, Middle East Eye, Le Monde English — 4 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.