Macron Seeks Gulf Energy Deals Amid French Unrest, 2,400 Arrested

French President Emmanuel Macron undertook a three-day diplomatic tour of Gulf states starting October 19, 2026, seeking energy supplies and strategic partnerships while over 2,400 people were arrested amidst violent domestic protests[9][12][15]. This visit demonstrates how France's severe domestic energy crisis and widespread civil unrest are directly linked to its international relations, pushing the country to seek external solutions for internal stability[1][12].

What the records show

President Macron's visit included stops in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar, from October 19 to October 21, 2026[11][13][14][19]. The French presidency stated his objectives were to secure additional fuel supplies, diversify energy routes, and strengthen economic and defense ties with these nations[1][11][12][15][16][18]. Discussions with Gulf leaders focused on regional stability, freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, and broader energy security concerns[1][11][13][17][18]. These diplomatic efforts took place as widespread civil unrest continued across France, fueled by rising living costs, high energy prices, and poor conditions in schools[1][3][9][10]. Student protests escalated into violent riots in major French cities, with reports indicating over 2,400 or 2,500 people detained[9][12]. Public buildings, including town halls and shops, were attacked and looted during the chaos[9][12]. An ongoing Middle East conflict, referred to as a "US-Iran war" by some sources, has disrupted critical oil routes like the Strait of Hormuz, directly impacting energy markets and contributing to France's domestic energy pressures[11][12].

The timeline

The Elysee Palace announced President Macron's upcoming Gulf tour on October 14, 2026[14][19]. Details about the tour's objectives, including discussions on the Strait of Hormuz and energy prices, were outlined by October 15, 2026[11]. Over the weekend of October 17-18, severe violence erupted across several major French cities following widespread protests[6][10]. On Sunday, October 18, 2026, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez offered his resignation to President Macron[7][8][10]. The following day, Monday, October 19, 2026, Macron rejected Nuñez's resignation[6][7][8][10]. On the same day, President Macron arrived in Kuwait, marking the start of his three-day Gulf tour, which concluded on October 21, 2026[12][13].

What changed and for whom

In response to the unrest, the French government implemented localized curfews in certain areas[4][9]. Military forces from Operation Sentinelle were deployed to reinforce police and gendarmes[2][20][21]. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez submitted his resignation over the weekend's events, acknowledging that security forces had lost control in some cities[6][10]. However, President Macron refused to accept his resignation, keeping Nuñez in his position[6][7][8][10]. President Macron also recognized failures in security and intelligence during the unrest[12].

What President Macron has said publicly

President Macron rejected Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez's resignation, citing "the necessity for continued leadership of law enforcement at this time"[7][10]. He also tasked Nuñez with ensuring "transparency over the failures in planning and intelligence that led to the violence" and to implement "new operational methods for security forces"[7]. Regarding his Gulf tour, Macron stated the visit was needed to "secure our supplies" and address the "concern" expressed by demonstrators over fuel prices[12]. He noted that securing commitments on diesel and oil volumes was a key goal of the trip[12].

What we could not confirm

Specific details regarding the outcomes of President Macron's discussions with Gulf leaders, such as any confirmed commitments on diesel and oil volumes, could not be confirmed. The exact number of military personnel deployed from Operation Sentinelle or the precise number of cities where curfews were imposed remain unconfirmed. The total number of casualties or injuries resulting from the protests has not been confirmed.