In brief
Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh was struck by a Houthi projectile on Sunday, the second attack on the airport in as many days. The strike triggered a fire in a passenger hall and led to injuries, following Saturday’s deadly salvo that killed 13 people and wounded 308. The rebels, backed by Iran, say the attacks are retaliation for Saudi support to Yemen’s government and a Saudi strike on Sana’a. Saudi coalition forces intercepted a missile near the airport and the disturbances drew swift reactions from the UK and U.S., with talks of possible counter‑strikes. The incidents arrive after a ceasefire collapse earlier in 2026 and reignite fears of an Iranian‑backed state on Saudi Arabia’s southern border.
Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh was struck by a Houthi projectile on Sunday, the second attack on the airport in as many days.
A fire broke out in one of the terminal’s passenger halls, and officials reported injuries. The attack followed the fatal strike that killed 13 people and wounded 308 on Saturday.
Houthis, backed by Iran, say they are retaliating for Saudi military support in Yemen and for a Saudi strike on Sana’a. Their spokesman warned that Saudi airports “are potential targets” and added that Mecca and Medina were also at risk.
Saudi coalition forces intercepted a missile near the airport and responded to the flare‑up, while the civil aviation authority confirmed several casualties and injury reports. The airport’s management is working to restore services.
International leaders reacted swiftly. UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting hinted at possible support, while U.S. President Donald Trump stated the United States would “move very quickly” on striking the Houthis.
The strikes arrive after a ceasefire collapsed in July, following earlier incidents that saw the Houthis seize parts of Yemen’s Red Sea coast. Saudi Arabia fears an Iranian‑backed state on its southern border and has called the attacks “war crimes.”
The map below shows the location of King Khalid International Airport and key regional flashpoints.
