The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation announced that 12 people were killed and 309 injured in a recent attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, targeted one of the airport's passenger lounges and resulted in several critical injuries. The victims are currently receiving medical care.
The spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition, Brigadier General Turki Al-Malki, condemned the attack as a terrorist act and vowed to respond with force. Al-Malki stated that the attack constituted a "complete war crime" and emphasized that it was a violation of international humanitarian law and customs. The coalition will respond to the attack in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Several Arab countries, including Qatar, Yemen, Palestine, and Egypt, have denounced the attack and expressed their solidarity with Saudi Arabia. These countries also warned of the potential consequences of the attack on regional security and the safety of civilians and air traffic. The international community is closely monitoring the situation.
A Western diplomat in Riyadh reported that several embassies have advised their staff to avoid using Riyadh airport for the next week due to a series of recent attacks. The diplomat, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that Western embassies have decided to prohibit their staff from traveling to and from Riyadh airport as a precautionary measure.
Yemeni Prime Minister Shai'c Alzandani reported that the "Dawn of Yemen" operation is progressing towards restoring state institutions and securing the Bab al-Mandab Strait. He noted that the Yemeni forces, supported by the Saudi-led coalition, are making progress in their campaign to regain control of the region.
The Houthi group in Yemen has reiterated its warning to airlines, airport staff, and travelers to avoid using Saudi airports and airspace, except for those in Mecca and Medina. The Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Sare'e, stated that the group's armed forces will target any aircraft or airports in Saudi Arabia.
The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia has informed its staff that they require special permission to use Jeddah and Dammam airports. This move comes after a similar decision was made regarding Riyadh airport. These developments are part of an escalation of military tensions in Yemen since July 2026.
Key points
- The Houthi group's attacks on Saudi airports have resulted in significant casualties and disruptions to air traffic.
- The Saudi-led coalition has vowed to respond to the attacks with force and in accordance with international humanitarian law.
- The international community is closely monitoring the situation and has denounced the attacks as terrorist acts.
