The Houthi militia in Yemen has claimed responsibility for a missile strike on King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh, marking the second such attack within a week. The missile impact damaged at least one Saudia aircraft and led to a significant disruption of flight schedules, with hundreds of cancellations reported at the airport.
The Saudi Civil Aviation authority reported that previous attacks on both RUH and Abha International Airport (AHB) resulted in fatalities and injuries. The latest strike on RUH caused one death and numerous injuries, prompting international condemnation and concerns over the safety of civilian airspace in the region.
Security Concerns and International Response
United Nations officials called the attack a violation of international law, emphasizing the need for regional stability. U.S. and other international officials have expressed alarm over escalating hostilities and the potential threat to commercial airline operations.
"The situation underscores the ongoing conflict and risks faced by civil aviation in the region," said a spokesperson for GACA. Yahya Saree, a Houthi spokesperson, claimed the missile was fired with precision and issued a warning to airlines operating in Saudi airspace.
GACA is working with authorities to evaluate the damage and restore safe operations. The ongoing conflict presents a challenge to aviation safety and regional stability, with many flights affected and travel disruptions likely to persist until the situation stabilizes.
