The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has strongly condemned the Houthi attacks on Abha and King Khalid airports in Saudi Arabia, which resulted in several fatalities and injuries. GCC Secretary-General Jassem Al-Budaiwi described the attacks as "terrorist" and "a serious escalation" that threatens regional and international peace and security. He emphasized that targeting civilian airports and putting the lives of passengers, workers, and civilians at risk is a blatant violation of international laws and norms.
The attacks, which occurred on October 6 and 7, 2026, targeted the facilities of Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport. According to the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation, the attacks resulted in two fatalities and 28 injuries at Abha Airport, while one person was killed and eight injured at King Khalid Airport. The injured included citizens and residents of various nationalities, including Moroccan, Algerian, Bangladeshi, Filipino, Egyptian, and Pakistani.
Al-Budaiwi reiterated the GCC's solidarity with Saudi Arabia and its support for the country's efforts to protect its security, stability, and sovereignty. He also expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery. The GCC chief called for a strong and unified international stance to deter such attacks and prevent them from being repeated.
The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation reported that emergency teams and relevant authorities responded quickly to the attacks and took necessary measures to ensure the safety of passengers and workers. The authority is working closely with relevant security agencies to assess the damage and take all necessary measures to maintain the security and safety of the civil aviation system in Saudi Arabia.
The attacks on the airports have been widely condemned, with many countries and international organizations denouncing the violence and calling for an end to such attacks. The international community has emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and for all parties to respect international laws and norms.
The GCC's condemnation of the Houthi attacks is a reflection of the organization's commitment to regional security and stability. The GCC has consistently supported Saudi Arabia's efforts to protect its security and sovereignty, and has called for a unified international stance to address the threats posed by terrorist groups.
The situation remains tense, with the international community closely following developments in the region. The GCC and other international organizations continue to call for calm and restraint, and for all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Key points
- GCC Secretary-General Jassem Al-Budaiwi condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi airports as "terrorist" and "a serious escalation".
- The attacks resulted in several fatalities and injuries, including two deaths and 28 injuries at Abha Airport.
- The GCC reiterates its solidarity with Saudi Arabia and supports its efforts to protect its security, stability, and sovereignty.
