Riyadh Airport Attacks Escalate Amid Ongoing Conflict
The international airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital, experienced another attack on Saturday. This is part of a series of assaults linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran. President Donald Trump indicated he was considering whether the U.S. should join Saudi strikes against the Houthi rebels, who have support from Tehran and are based in Yemen. These rebels had earlier claimed responsibility for attacks on King Khalid International Airport, resulting in the deaths of three Saudis, including a pilot.
On Saturday, a missile struck terminals 3 and 4, leading to many injuries, according to a regional official who spoke anonymously. President Trump remarked, “We may. We’re going to look at it,” regarding possible intervention by the U.S.
The attacks have increased since the Saudi-led coalition started a major offensive against the Houthis. Although rebel forces have remained silent about the recent assault, they accused Saudi Arabia earlier of striking the Sanaa International Airport.
Airport Operations Suspended
Saudi civil aviation authorities halted operations at the Riyadh airport to assess damage and injuries. An official notice stated the suspension would last until midnight. A significant police presence surrounded the airport, with entrances blocked and lights dimmed. Flights were diverted, as tracked by Flightradar24.
Countries like the U.S., Britain, Germany, Australia, and Canada advised their citizens to avoid the airport. The situation has affected global oil markets, though the Saudi energy ministry is proceeding with an international energy conference in Riyadh.
Tensions in Yemen and Regional Impacts
The conflict in Yemen between Houthi rebels and Saudi-backed government forces has intensified, with Saudi air support aiming to reverse the rebels’ gains. The Houthis have improved their surveillance of shipping along a crucial route alternative to the Strait of Hormuz. Concerns about broadened attacks remain despite the rebels’ claims of targeting only Saudi shipping.
Previously, the Houthis attacked other ships in response to the war in Gaza, expressing solidarity with Palestinians. However, a U.S. bombing campaign limited these actions.
Requests for Defense Support
Saudi Arabia faces a shortage of missile interceptors and has sought air defense support from France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt. U.S. assistance includes intelligence and planning support. Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister and his Omani counterpart discussed the need for diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions during a phone call.
Flight Disruptions
The Houthis warned international airlines about operating in Saudi airspace. Flight disruptions include the cancellation of 291 flights at the Riyadh airport over 24 hours, reported by FlightAware. Major carriers such as Air India, FlyDubai, Lufthansa Group, and Pakistan International Airlines have suspended services to Riyadh and other Saudi locations temporarily.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency updated its guidance on Saudi airspace, pointing out the heightened risk posed by Houthi capabilities. The risk of civil aircraft being misidentified has increased as a result of missile and drone activity.
Two regional officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that recent attacks damaged three planes at the Riyadh airport. Saudi’s national carrier confirmed that one of its aircraft was hit while parked, though there were no passengers onboard at the time.