In a major escalation of tensions in West Asia, at least 13 people, including an Indian national, were killed and more than 300 injured after Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched a missile attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday.
According to Saudi Arabia’s Civil Aviation Authority, the missiles struck Terminals 3 and 4 of the airport. The victims included one Indian, four Saudi citizens, two Bangladeshis, and one citizen each from the United States, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Palestine, and Sudan. Many of the injured are reported to be in critical condition.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh confirmed that an Indian national who was injured in the attack later died. The embassy expressed condolences to the family and said it is helping with the repatriation of the mortal remains.
The deceased Indian has been identified as Mohammed Yusuf Ali, a resident of Hyderabad. AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi said Yusuf’s family was also affected in the attack. According to Owaisi, one of Yusuf’s sons is undergoing knee surgery, while another lost three toes and remains hospitalised.
Several countries, including India, condemned the attack and expressed support for Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said the United States is considering joining Saudi Arabia’s military campaign against the Houthi rebels.
Following the strike, the Houthis warned airlines, passengers, and airport staff to avoid Saudi airports and airspace. In a statement aired on the Houthi-run Al-Masirah television channel, the group said Saudi airports, except those serving the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, could be targeted if Saudi military operations in Yemen continue.
The attack caused major disruption to air travel. More than 225 flights to and from Riyadh were canceled within 24 hours. Air India and Air India Express have suspended flights to Riyadh until October 14-15.
Saudi authorities also reported that a missile landed near King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, while security forces intercepted several drones. Reports suggest that King Khalid International Airport has been temporarily closed following the attacks.
The incident has raised security concerns ahead of an international energy conference in Riyadh, which is expected to be attended by around 70 ministers, representatives of 300 companies, and delegates from 25 international energy organizations.
Owaisi said he is in touch with Yusuf’s relatives in Riyadh and that officials from the Indian Embassy have assured support for the affected family. He also urged External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to extend all possible assistance to them.
