France’s Macron lands in Riyadh on surprise ‘solidarity’ visit

French President Emmanuel Macron made an unannounced visit to Riyadh on Wednesday, becoming the first Western leader to do so since the recent surge in Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. This surprise "solidarity" visit aimed to ease tensions over rising gas prices in France, one of the factors contributing to social unrest.

Macron's trip came amid growing concerns about the escalating attacks by Iran-backed Houthis, which have forced Riyadh to close its main airport and postpone a major investment conference. The Houthi maritime blockade is also threatening Saudi oil exports.

Macron's unannounced visit sent a strong message to his Saudi ally, demonstrating France's support in the face of the ongoing attacks. It was part of a broader Gulf tour to secure oil and diesel, helping to bring down prices in France. During his brief stop in Riyadh, Macron met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and agreed that Saudi Arabia would supply additional diesel to France for as long as necessary.

The two leaders also discussed expanded security cooperation and infrastructure projects to bypass the blocked Strait of Hormuz.

Earlier in the day, Macron revealed that France had deployed troops to protect the crucial Saudi oil terminal of Yanbu from Houthi attacks, while emphasizing the importance of resuming discussions with the group. France had been sending military means to shield Yanbu, which had been the primary export route for Saudi oil following Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Macron had previously stated that France would provide military assistance to protect Yanbu from Houthi attacks.