King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh experienced two deadly attacks over the weekend, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and numerous injuries. Yemen’s Houthi movement, which is backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for the strikes carried out on Saturday and Sunday, targeting the major Saudi aviation hub.
The attacks prompted widespread condemnation from several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Egypt, who denounced the assaults as violations of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty.
Among those killed in the incidents were nationals from multiple countries. Saudi authorities identified Maryam Al Ibrahim Al Abdulrahman Al Namlah as one of the victims. She was reportedly traveling to the holy city of Madinah at the time of the attack. Funeral prayers for Al Namlah were scheduled to be held at Riyadh’s Al Rajhi Mosque.
Bangladesh confirmed that two of its citizens were among those killed, with the government condemning the Houthi strike. The Bangladeshi mission in Riyadh maintained communication with local authorities to secure details about the deceased and the injured, offering support to affected nationals.
Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported the death of an Egyptian flight attendant, 28-year-old Azza Ramzi Mohamed Hassan from Beheira governorate, due to injuries sustained during the Saturday attack. Following directives from President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi, Egyptian diplomatic officials in Riyadh coordinated with the family and expedited the repatriation of her body. They also visited five injured Egyptian nationals in hospitals to monitor their condition.
The Indian Embassy announced the death of an Indian national, Yousuf Sahab of Hyderabad, who was injured in the initial attack. Earlier reports had indicated 11 Indian nationals were wounded. Yousuf’s family has been receiving assistance from Indian diplomatic officials, with one of his sons undergoing knee surgery and another hospitalized after losing three toes. The family members remain in contact with Indian authorities to ensure ongoing support.
Jordan reported one fatality and four injuries, with two men discharged from hospital and two women still undergoing treatment. The Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is facilitating the repatriation of the deceased.
Pakistan confirmed one death resulting from Sunday’s attack and six injuries from Saturday’s strike. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed condolences and affirmed support for affected families, noting that Pakistan’s embassy in Riyadh was actively engaged with local authorities.
Palestinian authorities confirmed the death of Talal Al Dani on Saturday and are providing assistance to his family.
The Philippines reported two of its nationals remain in intensive care in Riyadh, with no fatalities among Filipino citizens. Government offices are closely monitoring their condition and offering support.
The attacks forced a temporary suspension of operations at King Khalid International Airport, leading to significant flight disruptions. Data showed over one-third of scheduled departures were canceled or marked as no-fly as of early Monday morning. Major airlines, including Dubai-based flydubai and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, have suspended flights to Riyadh until mid-October. Kuwaiti carriers Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways also canceled services to and from the airport due to the disrupted operations.
Authorities continue to manage the aftermath of the attacks amid heightened security concerns in the region.