Iran hosts regional talks as Riyadh flight cancellations hit 86 per cent

Regional diplomatic efforts to contain escalating tensions intensified on Monday, 26 October, as representatives from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey convened in Tehran. The high-level meeting, reported by Iranian state television, focused on regional cooperation and the impact of ongoing military hostilities involving Israel and the United States. Massive flight disruptions at Riyadh airport Aviation data highlights the severe impact of regional instability on commercial travel. Aviation analytics firm Cirium reported that 86 per cent of scheduled flights at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport were cancelled between 8 October and 25 October. Out of 4,736 scheduled operations, 4,071 flights were grounded during this period. While the airport reopened on 25 October following a two-week closure, cancellations persist. However, international carriers have begun a phased restoration of services. Between late October and December 2026, up to 36 weekly flights between Dubai and Europe are expected to resume, alongside restored routes to Athens and Manila. UAE-based passengers are advised to verify flight statuses directly with carriers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Egypt authorises military support for Saudi Arabia The geopolitical landscape shifted on Monday, 26 October, as Egypt’s parliament granted President Abdel Fattah El Sisi the authority to deploy defensive military support for Saudi Arabia. This move is a direct response to Houthi missile and drone threats…