Saudi Arabia - Conversation between the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs and his Saudi counterpart (9 March 2026)

Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, had a telephone conversation with his counterpart from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

The two ministers talked about the ongoing military escalation in the Middle East, marked by strikes carried out against Iran by Israel and the United States, and by missile and drone attacks carried out in retaliation by Tehran in several of the region’s countries.

The Minister emphasized the need to avoid any extension of the conflict and reiterated France’s commitment to a swift de-escalation and a diplomatic solution, and a mission dedicated to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The two ministers also talked about the regional and economic consequences of the crisis, particularly for energy security and maritime security.

Finally, they reaffirmed their determination to continue their close coordination to contribute to regional stability and ongoing diplomatic efforts.