France Offers to Secure Saudi Energy Infrastructure Amid Houthi Attacks
France has signaled its readiness to help secure Saudi Arabia's energy infrastructure targeted by Iran-backed Houthis, adopting a defensive approach. According to a diplomatic source, France is willing to contribute to securing key facilities in Yanbu and along the East-West Pipeline.
The Houthi attacks have caused significant disruptions to oil exports through these routes, including the shutdown of the East-West Pipeline after drone strikes from Iraq. The Saudi oil giant Aramco's facilities in Yanbu have also been attacked by the Houthis.
France emphasizes that its involvement will be strictly defensive and does not imply participation in the conflict with the Houthis. This decision is part of a broader effort to support Saudi Arabia's energy security, particularly given the critical role these infrastructure assets play in global oil trade.