French President Macron adds unscheduled stop to Gulf tour in Saudi Arabia

Regional tensions drive surprise arrival

The French leader landed in the kingdom while maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz faced disruptions. This stop follows visits to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain earlier this week. The visit occurs as Houthi attacks on Saudi territory have intensified over the past month.

Goals focus on energy security

Macron stated he secured pledges for additional energy supplies from his Gulf partners during this trip. Officials say these agreements aim to lower costs amid a growing cost of living crisis in France. The president also wants to demonstrate solidarity with the kingdom against ongoing attacks.

First Western leader since strikes

Macron is the first Western head of state to visit the country since the Houthi campaign began. He is scheduled to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman upon his arrival in Riyadh. The French office described the mission as a way to continue diversifying hydrocarbon supplies.