October 12, 2026

Central Times

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Houthis

Riyadh Airport Attack: 1 Dead, 11 Injured in Houthi Strike | Top Updates

At least one person was killed and 11 others were injured after the Iran-backed Houthis launched an attack targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday.

The latest strike disrupted flights, heightened security concerns, and prompted international travel warnings. Tensions continue to rise across the Middle East as the Houthis intensify attacks against Saudi targets. The escalation comes amid a regional conflict that began in late February, when the United States and Israel launched military operations against Iran. Although Saudi Arabia had largely avoided direct involvement, the kingdom now faces growing security challenges as attacks threaten its critical infrastructure.

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Houthis Warn Saudi Arabia After Airport Strike

Saudi authorities reported that a projectile struck Riyadh airport on October 11, causing a fire in a passenger hall and killing a Pakistani resident. Saudi-led coalition forces said air defences intercepted a cruise missile near the airport, a drone in the Eastern Province, and a ballistic missile targeting Khamis Mushait. Civil Defence officials also issued emergency alerts in Abha before confirming that the immediate danger had passed. On October 11, the Houthis renewed their warning against using Saudi airports and threatened further attacks if Riyadh continued its involvement in Yemen. The group also claimed Saudi forces had conducted at least 124 airstrikes across Yemen within 24 hours, raising concerns about civilian safety and regional security.

The attack disrupted flights and business activities in Riyadh, forcing the financial hub to shift to remote working. Executives from BP and Shell reportedly withdrew from a major energy event scheduled for this week, raising concerns about foreign investment and international events. The United Kingdom advised against non-essential travel to Jeddah, Dammam, and most Saudi airports, while urging British nationals to consider leaving through neighbouring countries’ land borders.

Meanwhile, the US Federal Aviation Administration advised American airlines to exercise caution when flying over parts of Saudi Arabia. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi about regional developments and efforts to reduce tensions. India and the United States condemned the attacks and expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia. India called for an immediate halt to strikes against civilians and civilian infrastructure, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticised the attacks. President Donald Trump said his administration was considering possible participation in Saudi military operations against the Houthis.

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