GCC Postpones EU-Gulf Summit in Riyadh Due to Houthi Attacks
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union have officially postponed their scheduled summit, originally slated for October 24, 2026, in Riyadh. The decision follows an intensification of Houthi militant attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and its civilian infrastructure, which has led to the continued suspension of operations at King Khalid International Airport.
Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, the Secretary General of the GCC, stated that the rescheduling was necessary in light of the continued attempts by the terrorist Houthi militia to target the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its civilian objects, which threatens the security and safety of innocent civilians.
He further noted that the decision was made to ensure the safety of the participating delegations. The European Union confirmed the postponement in a separate statement, noting that a new date for the summit would be announced in due course, while emphasizing the continued importance of its partnership with GCC member states.
Security Concerns and Regional Escalation
The postponement comes amid a period of heightened regional volatility. In recent days, Houthi forces have intensified their strikes on the Saudi capital, including repeated attacks on the airport. Military officials reported that the Saudi-led coalition intercepted a cruise missile near Medina and a drone in the Eastern Province on Thursday. These incidents occur against the backdrop of escalating conflict between the internationally recognized Yemeni government and the Houthi movement.
Impact on Diplomatic and Economic Ties
- The GCC and the EU maintain their commitment to creating favorable conditions for the summit, citing long-term goals of strengthening cooperation and fostering mutual prosperity.
- European leaders, currently meeting in Brussels, have expressed concern regarding the impact of ongoing regional conflicts on global oil and gas prices.
- Supply chains remain under pressure due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing disputes surrounding the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Recent attacks on the Kingdom have reached unprecedented levels, including a strike on Riyadh that resulted in 13 deaths and over 300 injuries, marking the deadliest assault on Saudi territory in more than a decade. The GCC announced the postponement on Thursday, citing the ongoing escalation between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis as the primary factor for delaying the second summit between the two blocs.