Macron makes surprise Saudi visit as France secures extra diesel supplies
French president meets Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh to discuss energy, security, and infrastructure.

French president meets Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh to discuss energy, security, and infrastructure.






![Countries' leaders and representatives before the first committee meeting of the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, in Istanbul, Turkiye, August 31, 2026 [Murad Sezer/Reuters]](https://aljazeeranews-3fuh52rgrl.edgeone.app/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026-08-31T102804Z_1832198569_RC2L9NAVWSOD_RTRMADP_3_TURKEY-SAUDI-PAKISTAN-MEETING-1790303316.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)

Government forces launch major offensives across multiple Yemeni front lines as a tightening blockade threatens Taiz.
UNICEF says escalating fighting in Taiz is threatening its water systems, serving an estimated three million people.
Ministry of Defence says warplanes will operate in ‘defensive role’ and not be used to attack Yemeni group.
Riyadh postpones flagship investment conference until 2027, orders government staff to work from home.
Lawmakers adjourn session as opposition party tells members to abstain over unclear commitment.
There have been new reports of Iranian support for the Houthis in Yemen amid a wave of attacks on Saudi cities.
Gulf ministers urge action against Houthis as fighting displaces more than 233,000 people across Yemen.
Analysts say that any move from Egypt will remain ‘strictly defensive’, as the conflict in Yemen intensifies.
Presidency says Egypt will provide Saudi Arabia with support to defend its security and protect its resources.