Saudi Arabia Proceeds With Major Conferences After Riyadh Airport Attacks

The Government of Saudi Arabia is proceeding with the World Petroleum Congress and the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh this month despite recent missile attacks on the city's airport. The strikes, launched by the Iran-backed Houthis, killed four people and heavily damaged an airliner, causing widespread flight disruptions.

The Houthis declared Saudi airspace a zone of military operations in response to a Saudi-backed Yemeni government offensive. Saudi forces responded by striking missile launcher sites. In the wake of the attacks, airlines including Lufthansa, Etihad Airways, and Flydubai suspended or cancelled flights to Riyadh, while the United Kingdom, France, and Germany issued travel warnings.

Organizers confirmed the conferences will move forward, with the Future Investment Initiative scheduled for October 26-29. Maha bint Mishari Al Saud, CEO of the Future Investment Initiative, stated that "Safety and well-being remain our highest priority" and noted that comprehensive security measures will be in place. Some international officials have adjusted their plans, including Italian Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, who will now attend the International Energy Forum Ministerial Meeting via video link.