Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has been struck for a second consecutive day, causing a fire and further injuries after a deadly attack claimed by Yemen’s Houthi group killed 13 people and injured more than 300.
Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation authority confirmed that Sunday’s strike caused injuries at the airport, which was also targeted on Saturday, October 10.
The latest attack came as the Houthis claimed responsibility for multiple strikes on Saudi Arabia over the past 24 hours, including Saturday’s deadly assault, and warned airlines and passengers against using the kingdom’s airports and airspace.
The death toll from Saturday’s attack rose to 13 on Sunday after an Indian national died from their injuries, according to the Indian Embassy in Riyadh.
More than 300 people were injured in the initial strike, while verified footage showed the aftermath of the attack at one of Saudi Arabia’s major international aviation hubs.
The Houthis subsequently issued a warning to international aviation companies, declaring Saudi airports and airspace unsafe.
The attacks have caused widespread disruption to air travel, with hundreds of flights into and out of Saudi Arabia delayed or cancelled on Sunday.
Saudi authorities have also moved schools to remote learning for one week over safety concerns.
The latest strikes mark a sharp deterioration in the conflict between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia, which supports Yemen’s internationally recognised government against the armed group.
The repeated attacks have also raised concerns about Saudi Arabia’s air defence capabilities and the security of its aviation infrastructure.
International reactions have followed the strikes, with UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting suggesting that Britain could potentially provide additional support to Saudi Arabia.
US President Donald Trump has also indicated that Washington may become involved in offensive strikes.
The renewed attacks place further pressure on Saudi Arabia as authorities respond to the casualties, aviation disruption and security concerns surrounding the country’s airports.
Erizia Rubyjeana