A missile strike hit King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, killing at least 12 people and injuring over 300, according to local authorities. The attack targeted the passenger terminal, causing significant damage and forcing the closure of the airport. The Saudi civil aviation authority confirmed the casualties, which included four Saudis, two Bangladeshis, and one each from the US, Jordan, Palestine, Syria, Sudan, and Egypt.
The attack is believed to have been carried out by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who have been accused of targeting Saudi infrastructure. The US embassy in Saudi Arabia warned its staff to seek permission before using the airport, citing recent missile attacks and potential travel disruptions. The US has condemned the attack, with President Donald Trump considering joining Saudi-led strikes against the Houthis.
This is the second such attack on Saudi airports this year, following a similar strike on the airport in Jeddah. The Houthi rebels have previously claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi facilities, which they have called a response to Saudi military actions in Yemen. The situation has intensified regional tensions, with Washington debating whether to resume military strikes against Iran-linked groups.
The attack highlights the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthi rebels, which has led to significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. International condemnation has followed the strike, with Kuwait and other nations calling the attack “cowardly.” The incident underscores the volatility of the region and the risks faced by civilians and international travelers.
