Saudi Arabia: Pakistan, the United Nations and the United States have condemned an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, as the incident prompted airport closures, flight cancellations and renewed warnings over regional security.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement, expressing condolences to the victims’ families and wishing those injured a full recovery. He said attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure were unacceptable and threatened regional peace and stability.
Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security, citing the longstanding relationship between the two countries and their Makkah Joint Defence Alliance.
How Have International Leaders Responded?
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed shock over reports that the attack had killed 12 people and injured hundreds. He said attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure violated international law and called for an immediate halt to such strikes.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also condemned the attacks, saying they demonstrated disregard for civilian life. He expressed Washington’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia and called for the strikes to stop.
US President Donald Trump described the attacks as “terrible” and said Washington was considering whether to join Saudi military operations against the Houthis. Asked about possible US involvement, Trump said a decision would be made after reviewing the situation.
What Has Been the Impact on Saudi Arabia?
Saudi authorities reported that Saturday’s attack killed at least 12 people and injured 309 others. The reported victims included Saudi nationals and citizens of several other countries, including the United States, Bangladesh, Jordan, Palestine, Syria, Sudan and Egypt.
King Khalid International Airport suspended operations for 18 hours until 6pm on Sunday, according to a notice issued by Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation. Hundreds of flights were cancelled or diverted to other airports, including those in Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah.
The Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthis accused the group of carrying out the attack and described it as a war crime, vowing a firm response. The escalation comes amid renewed fighting involving the Houthis and forces backed by Saudi Arabia in Yemen.
The latest developments have increased concerns over civilian safety, regional stability and disruption to air travel across the Gulf.