Three killed in attacks on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport
Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for two missile strikes on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, killing three Saudi citizens and injuring several others.
Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation reported that two attacks on Thursday targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, resulting in three fatalities and multiple injuries. The first strike hit airport facilities, while the second struck a Saudia aircraft on the ground. Emergency services responded according to established protocols, and the injured were taken to hospitals for treatment.
The Houthi movement in Yemen, which receives support from Iran, said it launched a ballistic missile at the airport. The Saudi authority did not officially attribute the attacks but noted the Houthi claim.
The incidents followed an earlier strike on the same airport earlier in the week that left one dead and eight wounded. In response, the United States issued security warnings for its embassy staff, imposed travel restrictions for government personnel, and several airlines suspended flights for several days.
Turkey’s foreign ministry condemned the attacks, expressing solidarity with Saudi Arabia and calling for an immediate end to attacks on civilian infrastructure. The European Commission’s president also voiced support for Saudi Arabia and urged Iran’s proxies to cease violent actions.
"We condemn in the strongest terms the attacks carried out by the Houthis on Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport," the Turkish ministry said.
"Houthis have once again struck Riyadh’s airport, taking three innocent lives. We stand in full solidarity with the people of Saudi Arabia and all our Gulf partners," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote.
The U.S. State Department reiterated its condemnation of the attacks and affirmed ongoing coordination with Saudi authorities to ensure security.