King Khalid International Airport Attack: 12 Confirmed Dead, 309 Injured in Riyadh

An assault on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has tragically resulted in the deaths of twelve individuals and left 309 others wounded. This incident marks the third reported attack on the aviation hub within a single week, as confirmed by the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation.

According to The Saudi Gazette, an English-language publication, which cited the civil aviation authority, the strike took place on Saturday, October 10, with reports emerging on Sunday. Among those who lost their lives were four Saudi nationals, two Bangladeshis, and one individual each from the United States, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Palestine, and Sudan. The authority further stated that all 309 injured persons were transported to various hospitals for medical attention, noting that several victims remained in critical condition. Additionally, damage to airport infrastructure was reported, and evaluations are presently underway to ascertain the full scope of the destruction.

International reactions included condemnation from the UN chief, who called for an immediate cessation of such strikes. Both UN and EU leaders also strongly denounced the incident. Earlier reports had indicated fears of numerous casualties and the evacuation of travellers following a blast at the airport.

Following the incident, airport operations were temporarily halted. This measure was implemented to allow authorities to evaluate the damage, confirm the safety of all facilities, and safeguard passengers, staff, and the overall civil aviation infrastructure. Meanwhile, Reuters news agency reported that Saudi officials and the Saudi-led coalition attributed responsibility for the assault to Yemen's Houthi group. Nevertheless, Reuters highlighted that the Houthi faction had not officially claimed involvement in the October 10 event.

The Saudi Gazette, also referencing the civil aviation authority, had previously reported that three Saudi citizens perished and several others sustained injuries in two distinct attacks on the airport that occurred on Thursday.