Riyadh:A series of attacks on Saudi airports has significantly disrupted air travel and led to heightened security measures. Over the past week, strikes have targeted airports in Riyadh and Dammam, forcing schools in Riyadh to transition to online learning and prompting foreign governments to issue warnings.
According to Anadolu Agency, ten attacks struck five airports between October 5 and 11, resulting in 20 deaths and hundreds of injuries. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh experienced five attacks, while King Fahd International Airport in Dammam was hit twice. Additional attacks targeted airports in Abha, Jazan, and Najran.
Casualties were confirmed early Monday following an attack on King Khalid International Airport. The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) stated that the attack killed a Pakistani resident and injured 11 others, who were hospitalized. Material damage from the attack is still being assessed. Earlier, a projectile struck Terminal 4, leading to a fire, and a cruise missile was intercepted near the airport.
An attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam was also reported, with damage assessments and safety inspections currently underway.
On Saturday, an attack on King Khalid International Airport resulted in 13 fatalities and 309 injuries. The casualties included citizens from various countries, with the death toll rising to 13 after an Indian national succumbed to injuries. The Saudi-led coalition blamed the Houthi group for the attacks and pledged a firm response.
In response to the attacks, Riyadh's airport operations were temporarily suspended for damage assessment and inspection. The Foreign Ministry advised citizens overseas to contact diplomatic missions for assistance regarding canceled or delayed flights.
Airlines, including Etihad Airways and SriLankan Airlines, have canceled or suspended flights due to the security situation. Etihad Airways canceled several flights between Abu Dhabi and Saudi cities, while SriLankan Airlines suspended all flights to Riyadh until October 18.
Schools in Riyadh shifted to online learning for the week starting October 11, following instructions from the Education Ministry.
Foreign governments have issued travel advisories, warning citizens about the risks of further attacks and disruptions. Countries including the UK, Australia, France, and the US have advised against travel to affected areas and urged heightened vigilance.
The recent attacks are part of an escalation in Yemen that began in July, following a period of relative calm after a UN-brokered truce in April 2022. Fighting intensified in September when the Houthis seized strategic positions in western Yemen, prompting military actions by the Saudi-led coalition.