Saudi Summit Postponed to 2027 as Houthi Attacks Kill 2, Force US Embassy Staff Out

Saudi Arabia is facing mounting security and diplomatic pressure as Houthi attacks escalate, forcing the postponement of its major investor conference, the withdrawal of US embassy staff, and prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to make an unannounced visit to Riyadh.

The attacks have intensified sharply in recent weeks. A failed drone attack on a Saudi oil field killed two people, marking a serious escalation in the conflict [267808]. The Houthis, an Iran-backed armed group based in Yemen, have launched repeated waves of missiles and drones at the kingdom since a deadly airport attack earlier this month that disrupted airlines and closed airspace [266309] [265370].

The security situation has rattled international partners. The United States has ordered non-emergency government staff to leave Saudi Arabia, describing the move as a precaution, with only essential employees remaining in the country [267811]. The order applies to non-emergency staff and does not affect all American citizens in the kingdom.

The attacks have also disrupted major business events. Saudi Arabia has postponed its flagship investor conference, often called "Davos in the Desert," to 2027 as the Houthi attacks escalate [266309]. The Future Investment Initiative is a major gathering for global finance, and Wall Street firms have long used it to build ties with Saudi officials and secure investment deals. U.S. business leaders had been unsure whether to attend the event, with some delaying plans and others waiting to see whether the security situation improved [266349].

French President Emmanuel Macron made an unannounced visit to Riyadh on Wednesday, aiming to show French support for Saudi Arabia amid the intensified attacks [267864]. Macron also sought to ease tensions at home by securing oil and diesel imports from the kingdom. The trip follows a weekend of violent protests in France over soaring living costs [266581].

Saudi Arabia also held separate discussions with France and Jordan on bilateral relations and regional developments, with talks focused on strengthening cooperation and addressing current issues in the region [267832].

The conflict is forcing Gulf countries to reassess their security strategies. Regional governments are reconsidering how they protect their borders, energy supplies, and shipping routes as the fighting between Saudi Arabia and Houthi forces intensifies [267810]. The Houthis have stepped up attacks on Saudi territory and nearby waterways, prompting Gulf states to review defense partnerships and military readiness. Analysts say the region is weighing deeper cooperation among Gulf neighbors alongside existing ties with outside powers.

Energy exports and commercial shipping remain central concerns, with any disruption to these routes potentially affecting global oil prices and trade [267810]. Gulf capitals have not announced a unified plan, but the renewed focus on security signals that the conflict is reshaping how the region prepares for risk.

The attacks threaten Riyadh's claim to regional and religious leadership, as well as its standing as an economic powerhouse [264147].