French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a two-day visit, addressing key topics including the war in the Middle East and economic partnerships. Agreements on health, transport, and energy are expected, highlighting the strengthening ties between France and Saudi Arabia.

Researchers have identified a social media video, linked to the Russia-associated Storm-1516 influence operation, allegedly showing Hezbollah militants threatening attacks in France ahead of the 14 July Bastille Day celebrations. The video appears fabricated, lacking Hezbollah logos and featuring linguistic errors, undermining its authenticity.

Moroccan rapper Mehdi El Youbi was arrested in Casablanca after being questioned by the National Brigade of Judicial Police. His supporters assert the detention is linked to his artistic expression. El Youbi, known for politically charged lyrics, faces concerns over legal representation amid a lawyers’ strike in Morocco.

Emmanuel Macron will oversee his final Bastille Day military parade in Paris, featuring Ukrainian troops, as France commemorates the 2016 Nice attacks. This year’s event, marking ten years since the tragedy, symbolizes Europe’s commitment to defend freedom against threats, with celebrations expected despite a heatwave.

France is set to host a meeting of the “Coalition of the Willing” on Monday, with 25 heads of state convening in Paris to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine. This coalition, jointly led by France and the UK, now comprises 37 countries and aims to strengthen military aid commitments amidst the ongoing conflict.

Paris’ Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum will close early this weekend as a heatwave grips France, with temperatures expected to reach up to 39°C. The Eiffel Tower will shut at 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday, while the Louvre will follow suit until Monday due to a red heat alert.