diff --git a/river/command/focus_output.zig b/river/command/focus_output.zig
index b2520ec..1bce2a4 100644
--- a/river/command/focus_output.zig
+++ b/river/command/focus_output.zig
@@ -50,4 +50,5 @@ pub fn focusOutput(
     });
 
     seat.focus(null);
+    root.startTransaction();
 }