Saudi Airport Attack Kills 12, Injures Over 300 as Flights Halted and US Weighs Military Response
Saudi Arabia's main international airport has been hit by a deadly missile strike that killed at least 12 people and wounded more than 300, prompting flight suspensions and international condemnation.
An attack on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport killed at least 12 people and injured more than 300 others, Saudi authorities said, marking the deadliest strike on Saudi soil in more than a decade [259791][259704][259544]. The missile strike hit the Saudi capital as the kingdom prepared to host a major international investment summit, forcing airport authorities to suspend all flights [259290][259526].
The Iran-backed Houthi militia in Yemen is believed to be behind the attack [259544][259526]. The strike marks a significant escalation in fighting between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, and it came just one day after a previous attack on the same airport killed 12 people [259786][259791]. The airport has been targeted multiple times in the week since a Saudi-led coalition launched a major military offensive against the Houthis in neighboring Yemen [259447][259704].
A Saudi-led coalition has promised a "decisive" response to the attack [259544]. U.S. President Donald Trump is considering whether to join military operations against the Houthis [259400]. The U.S. embassy confirmed it was aware of the attacks and told all Americans to stay away from the airport area [259253][259124].
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the European Union stands with Saudi Arabia and described the attack as a dangerous escalation [259665]. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called the strike a "terrorist act" targeting Saudi Arabia and civil aviation, saying Germany stands in solidarity with the kingdom [259661].
The attack adds pressure on the Middle East's largest economy as it prepares to host major events meant to attract foreign investment [259786]. The investment summits, which draw global business leaders and government officials, are expected to proceed despite the attack [259290].