Houthi Attacks on Saudi Airports Kill 3, Injure 36

Three people were killed and at least 36 others were wounded in attacks on two international airports in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, October 7. The attacks targeted Abha Airport and Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in neighboring Yemen later claiming responsibility.

According to Saudi officials, two residents from Morocco and Algeria were killed and 28 others were injured in the attack on Abha Airport. At Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, a Sudanese national was killed and eight people were wounded.

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Civil Aviation did not directly assign blame for the attacks. However, Houthi rebels claimed responsibility shortly afterward. The Saudi-led coalition has been fighting the Houthis in Yemen as the conflict continues to escalate.

Security measures have also been increased around Saudi Aramco facilities near Riyadh’s airport. Cage-like protective fences have been installed around fuel tanks and other equipment belonging to the state-run oil company. Saudi oil and military assets have come under increasing attack in recent days, according to AP.

Saudi-led coalition spokesperson Maj. Gen. Turki al-Malki said coalition forces intercepted a ballistic missile north of Riyadh and destroyed a platform in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, that was allegedly used to launch attacks on the Saudi capital. AP said it could not independently verify those claims.

The attacks on the two airports mark another serious escalation in the long-running conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, while also raising fresh concerns over the security of critical aviation, energy and regional infrastructure.