Missile Strike Leads to Airport Evacuations in Riyadh

A missile impacted the passenger terminal at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, causing injuries and leading to evacuations. This attack reflects intensifying hostilities within the kingdom, according to the Associated Press.

Two regional officials have verified the airport assault, with one stating that the missile hit a passenger terminal and caused numerous injuries. These officials are speaking anonymously due to lack of authorization for public disclosure. Emergency vehicles were seen heading toward the airport.

President Donald Trump, addressing the recent attack, mentioned the possibility of joining Saudi efforts against the Houthis. He informed reporters, “We have now learned of the attacks, we will examine them and make decisions,” as reported by YNetNews, an Israeli news outlet.

Efforts to gather comments from the State Department and the White House were made by Newsweek on Saturday.

Major Airline Disruptions and Flight Cancellations

Kuwait Airways announced, via X, the cancellation of flight KU775 (Kuwait to Riyadh) and flight KU776 (Riyadh to Kuwait) due to airport closure stemming from security concerns. The airline advised passengers to stay informed about their flight statuses through notifications sent to registered phone numbers and their official channels.

Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways also canceled several flights to Riyadh with some disruptions extending to Monday.

“Flights scheduled to land at Riyadh (RUH) are being diverted, with many heading to Jeddah,” AirNav Radar stated in a Facebook post. “Air traffic disruption so far: 266 flights canceled and 219 delayed.”

Escalating Attacks on Riyadh Airport

This recent attack is part of a surge in assaults on King Khalid International Airport, occurring amid fierce conflict between Saudi-backed Yemeni forces and Iran-aligned Houthis.

The airport has faced multiple attacks since a Saudi-led coalition commenced a significant military campaign against Houthis in Yemen. Previously, Houthis claimed responsibility for attacks, including one earlier that resulted in the death of a Sudanese national. However, they haven’t yet claimed responsibility for the Saturday strike.

The incident on Saturday transpired two days following an attack that resulted in the deaths of three Saudi nationals, including a pilot.

Reuters reported previous attacks earlier in the week left four individuals deceased, others injured, and substantial aircraft damage. A verified video still from the AP depicted thick smoke and flames post-Friday’s attack at the airport.

Travel Advisories and Regional Security

The U.S. State Department has rated Saudi Arabia at Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to potential risks such as armed conflict, Iranian missile attacks, terrorism, and exit bans.

This advisory also highlights threats from Iran-supported Houthi rebels targeting infrastructure with missiles and drones. U.S. travelers are advised against visiting the Yemen border, designated as Level 4 because of terrorism risks.

Escalating Fighting With the Houthis

The Houthis, backed by Iran, hold substantial control over northwestern Yemen, opposing Yemen’s internationally recognized, Saudi-supported government.

This year’s escalation amid the broader U.S.-Iran rivalry includes Houthi missile and drone strikes targeting Saudi Arabia, while Saudi-backed Yemeni forces contend for crucial Red Sea areas.

Houthis have cautioned airlines against using Saudi airspace, declaring it a military zone due to Saudi-backed Yemeni offensives.