France reaffirmed its commitment to support Saudi Arabia in safeguarding critical infrastructure against attacks by the Houthi movement, a French lawmaker stated during a visit to Jeddah on Thursday. Amal Amelia Lakrafi, member of the French National Assembly’s Foreign Affairs Committee, emphasized France’s stance toward the Houthis and outlined ongoing defense cooperation.
Speaking at the French Residence in Jeddah, Lakrafi said that France considers the Houthis a terrorist group and underscored the importance of backing countries engaged in counterterrorism efforts. She is part of the delegation accompanying French President Emmanuel Macron during his Gulf tour.
"When we say we are here to help with our defense systems and military personnel to secure your infrastructure, we will do so," Lakrafi said. She added that France intends to honor its pledge to aid Saudi Arabia’s protection measures.
The remarks followed Macron’s unexpected visit to Riyadh on Wednesday, which was described as a demonstration of solidarity amid recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi infrastructure. During the visit, Macron met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Al-Yamamah Palace, where they discussed regional and international developments and coordination to foster security and stability.
In addition to security cooperation, Saudi Arabia agreed to increase diesel supplies to France indefinitely, raising France’s monthly Gulf supply commitments to 295,000 tonnes. Lakrafi noted that Macron’s decision to include Riyadh in his itinerary—made without prior announcement—signaled the French president’s strong commitment to the bilateral partnership.
Regarding efforts to protect maritime traffic through the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, where Houthi activity has disrupted shipping, Lakrafi emphasized France’s focus on defending Saudi infrastructure. She confirmed that French military personnel and equipment have been deployed to key locations such as Yanbu to bolster defense capabilities. However, she stressed that France’s role remains strictly defensive and that the country is not a direct participant in the conflict.
On the status of French nationals in Saudi Arabia, Lakrafi reported that most feel secure despite some injuries sustained during recent attacks. She highlighted increased registration among French residents with consular authorities, facilitating better communication and updates from diplomatic missions.
When questioned about Macron’s call to resume dialogue with the Houthis, Lakrafi pointed to the potential involvement of regional mediators like Qatar and Oman, alongside international partners including the United States and Türkiye. She noted France’s position as a permanent member of the UN Security Council could support diplomatic efforts, although she expressed skepticism over direct negotiations between France and the Houthis given France’s defense support to Saudi Arabia.
The lawmaker underscored the urgency of pursuing a political resolution, citing the toll of ongoing violence and the decreasing public tolerance for military and civilian casualties. “War has only ever brought violence and destruction. I think people no longer want to see their soldiers die,” she said, reiterating France’s preference for a peaceful outcome.