Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia stays on track as safety fears grow amid Middle East conflict

Asian Cup organizers in Saudi Arabia have confirmed that the tournament's Jan. 7-Feb. 5 dates remain on track despite mounting safety concerns arising from the ongoing Middle East conflict. The Saudi organizing committee is working closely with the Asian Football Confederation to ensure all preparations remain on schedule. However, concerns have been raised by the South Korean Professional Footballers' Association, citing the security instability and ongoing attacks in Saudi Arabia by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels.

These attacks have resulted in at least 19 deaths, including foreigners, at various key locations across the kingdom. South Korean player union head Lee Keun-ho emphasized the serious concern over the safety of South Korea's national team and other participants. AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa suggested that the tournament could be postponed by one year if necessary, stating that the safety of players and fans is paramount.