European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday expressed her solidarity with Saudi Arabia and Gulf partners against Houthi attacks. In a post on social media platform X, von der Leyen stated that Houthi rebels, supported by Iran, had targeted Saudi Arabia's infrastructure, including an oil refinery and airports. These attacks, she added, continue to destabilize the region, spark further violence, and undermine global energy security.
The Houthi attacks occurred on Monday evening, targeting King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jazan and Najran International Airport. According to the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation, emergency teams and relevant authorities promptly responded to the attacks. The incidents resulted in three people sustaining minor injuries and some material damage. The injured were immediately taken to hospital for medical care.
The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation reported that it is working closely with relevant security agencies to assess the damage and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of passengers, workers, and the overall security of the civil aviation system in the Kingdom. The authority emphasized its commitment to maintaining the security and safety of the aviation sector.
President von der Leyen's statement also highlighted that regional security would be a key topic of discussion during the upcoming meeting with the Gulf Cooperation Council later this month. The European Commission's expression of solidarity with Saudi Arabia and its Gulf partners underscores the international community's concern about the escalating situation in the region.
The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have been involved in a longstanding conflict in Yemen, which has spilled over into neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia. The rebels have repeatedly targeted Saudi infrastructure, including airports, military installations, and energy facilities, in a series of drone and missile attacks.
The international community has widely condemned the Houthi attacks, which have caused significant disruptions to the region's stability and security. The attacks have also had far-reaching implications for global energy markets, given Saudi Arabia's significant role in the world's oil production.
The situation in the region remains volatile, with ongoing concerns about the potential for further escalation. The European Commission's expression of solidarity with Saudi Arabia and its Gulf partners reflects the international community's commitment to supporting regional stability and security.
Key points
- The European Commission has expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and Gulf partners against Houthi attacks.
- The attacks resulted in three people sustaining minor injuries and some material damage.
- Regional security will be a key topic of discussion during the upcoming meeting with the Gulf Cooperation Council.
