GCC-EU Summit in Riyadh postponed amid Houthi attacks

RIYADH — The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) announced Thursday the postponement of the GCC-EU Summit, originally scheduled for October 24 in Riyadh, citing continued Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and the extended suspension of flight operations at King Khalid International Airport.GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi said the decision was taken to ensure the safety of participating delegations amid ongoing security threats posed by the Houthi militia.He said the militia's continued attempts to target Saudi Arabia and civilian facilities had threatened the security and safety of innocent civilians, while the prolonged suspension of flights at Riyadh's main international airport had affected preparations for the summit.The GCC General Secretariat confirmed that the summit would be rescheduled to a later date to be mutually agreed upon by the GCC and European Union.Albudaiwi stressed that both sides remain committed to creating the appropriate conditions for convening the summit.He reaffirmed the determination of the GCC and EU to advance their strategic cooperation across various sectors and build on their existing partnership to promote economic growth and prosperity for their member states and peoples.The postponement comes amid escalating Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia, including strikes targeting King Khalid International Airport and other civilian facilities.