Three Killed in Houthi Attacks on Riyadh Airport and Aircraft
A series of attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh resulted in three fatalities and significant damage to a Saudia Airlines aircraft.
Three Saudi nationals lost their lives in the attacks on October 12.
The Houthi militia claimed responsibility for targeting the airport facilities and aircraft.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has issued a safety advisory for Indian nationals.
On October 12, a series of attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh led to the deaths of three Saudi nationals and injuries to several others. The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation confirmed the incidents, which included an assault on airport facilities and a direct hit on a Saudia Airlines aircraft. The authority did not specify the attackers, but the Iran-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen claimed responsibility for the strikes.
The first attack targeted the airport's infrastructure, while the second involved a missile strike on the aircraft, resulting in the death of a pilot and damage to the plane. Following the incidents, operations at King Khalid International Airport resumed, and air traffic returned to normal, as reported by the civil aviation authority. These attacks come in the wake of increased tensions and previous assaults on Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport earlier in October, which had already resulted in casualties.
In response to the missile launch attributed to the Houthi militia, Saudi Civil Defence personnel were deployed to manage the situation. Additionally, Saudi-led coalition forces reported the destruction of 82 military targets associated with the Houthi militia in Yemen, indicating a significant military response to the ongoing conflict.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh reacted by advising Indian nationals to remain vigilant and to follow local authority instructions. The embassy emphasized the importance of staying indoors when necessary and refraining from sharing videos or news related to the attacks. It confirmed that its operations in Riyadh and Jeddah were continuing normally, providing updates as needed.
India's Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attacks, labeling the targeting of civilian infrastructure as "completely unacceptable." The ministry expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a swift recovery to those injured. This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region and the impact on civilian safety amidst escalating hostilities.
