RIYADH, Saudi Arabia | October 10, 2026
A missile reportedly struck the passenger terminal at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, leaving several people injured and prompting the evacuation of parts of the airport, according to media reports.
The latest incident marks another escalation in attacks targeting Saudi Arabia’s aviation infrastructure. Regional officials told The Associated Press that the strike hit a passenger terminal, while witnesses reported explosions and emergency vehicles rushing to the scene. Saudi authorities had not immediately issued a detailed public statement confirming the full circumstances of Saturday’s incident.
Airport Operations Disrupted
The attack prompted significant disruption to air travel, with flights diverted or cancelled amid heightened security concerns. Kuwait Airways announced cancellations involving Riyadh, while other international carriers also reported flight disruptions.
Passengers were advised to check directly with their airlines for updated flight information before travelling to the airport. Several foreign embassies also urged their citizens to avoid the airport and surrounding areas because of ongoing security concerns.
Previous Attack Killed Three Saudis
The latest incident follows attacks on Riyadh’s airport on Thursday, October 8, which killed three Saudi citizens, including an airline pilot, and injured several others, according to Saudi aviation authorities. A Saudia aircraft was also damaged.
Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for earlier attacks. However, responsibility for Saturday’s reported strike had not been immediately established.
Regional Tensions Escalate
The attacks come amid intensifying fighting between Yemen’s Houthi movement and forces backed by Saudi Arabia. The expanding conflict has raised concerns about the security of airports, aircraft and other critical infrastructure across the region.
The latest reported strike has added to concerns about civilian safety and the potential for further disruption to international aviation.
