A passenger terminal at Riyadh’s international airport was hit by a projectile on Sunday, following a previous missile strike that killed 12 individuals, as confirmed by the Saudi-led coalition engaged in combat against Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for these assaults and others. The Saudi Civil Aviation Authority reported one fatality in the Sunday attack, identified as a Pakistani resident, with 11 others sustaining injuries.
The missile attack on Saturday marked the deadliest incident in a Gulf Arab nation since the onset of the Iran conflict in February, resulting in around 300 additional injuries, some severe. The recent escalation in this new front of the Iran conflict raises concerns about increased U.S. military participation, with President Donald Trump contemplating involvement in combating the rebels.
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia confirmed the death of one of its citizens on Sunday due to injuries from the previous day’s attack, bringing the death toll to 13. Additionally, reports emerged of an attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, though details remain scarce. The city, situated near Bahrain and Qatar on the Persian Gulf, has faced security breaches.
Following reports of the strikes, the Houthis announced another attack on the airport under their control in Sanaa, blaming the Saudis without providing specific information. The ongoing conflict poses risks to global oil supplies, prices, commercial shipping routes, and regional aviation. President Trump expressed intentions to discuss the situation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who seeks external support.
Saudi Arabia’s missile defense capabilities are reportedly strained, prompting requests for air defense support from France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt to bolster regional security. Sunday’s assault coincided with Saudi Arabia hosting a significant international energy conference in Riyadh, highlighting the vulnerability of key infrastructure. The kingdom’s efforts to enhance global engagement in business and tourism face challenges from the Houthi attacks.
The Houthis’ targeting of various locations, including airports and oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, raises concerns about further disruptions and escalations. The rebels’ threats have led to the suspension of flights by several international airlines, underscoring the risks associated with utilizing Saudi airspace. Saturday’s casualties included individuals from diverse nationalities, emphasizing the tragic toll of the attacks.
The impact of the conflict on the Iran war is profound, as the Houthis align with Iran to exert pressure on Saudi Arabia, a key U.S. ally. The resumption of hostilities following a ceasefire in 2022 has intensified, with the Saudi-led coalition backing Yemeni government forces to counter recent Houthi advancements. The strategic gains along the Red Sea by the rebels pose challenges to maritime security in the region.
Ahmed Nagi, a senior analyst for Yemen at the International Crisis Group, warned that Houthi pressure tactics could backfire by strengthening Saudi resolve to continue military operations. The ongoing violence underscores the complex dynamics and risks involved in the broader regional conflict.
