France to send troops to protect Saudi port: Macron

France will send soldiers, radar and defence systems to protect Yanbu, an important port city on Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast. French President Emmanuel Macron said this on Thursday.

In a long television interview on the international situation on Thursday night, Macron said France will send military equipment and personnel to protect Yanbu port. However, the purpose is not to get involved in any conflict, but to keep the port secure.

Macron said if reports that the United States is considering banning diesel exports are true, it would be disastrous for the global economy and the US economy. However, the White House has denied that it is considering such a ban.

As fuel prices continue to rise in France, Macron assured the country's citizens that there are adequate gas and oil reserves for the coming winter. He also said the government is working to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply.

Yanbu is an important port for Saudi Arabia's oil exports. Amid recent regional conflict, the importance of this Red Sea port has increased further due to obstacles in oil transport through the Hormuz Strait. Yanbu and Saudi Arabia's energy infrastructure have also recently come under threat of missile and drone attacks.

In comments to Reuters, Macron said the military assistance France is sending to protect Yanbu will include soldiers, radar systems and defence systems. He made it clear that the purpose of these steps is not to involve France in any conflict, but to protect the important installation.