Saudi Arabia vows 'serious response' after deadly Houthi attacks on airports

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group has significantly escalated its attacks on critical infrastructure within Saudi Arabia, prompting widespread global concern and the issuance of numerous international travel warnings. Over the past week, multiple assaults targeted Saudi airports, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam. A strike on King Khalid International Airport on Saturday, October 10, resulted in at least 13 fatalities and over 300 injuries, marking it as the deadliest attack in the kingdom in more than a decade. Another attack on the same airport the following day killed one person and injured 11 others. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for these operations, explicitly warning that Saudi airports and airspace, excluding the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, are considered legitimate targets. Energy facilities belonging to Saudi Aramco have also been targeted.

In response to these intensified attacks on civilian areas, Saudi Arabia has vowed a "decisive response," characterizing the actions as a "full-fledged war crime". The Saudi-led coalition has increased its airstrikes against Houthi positions across Yemen and is actively working to enhance defense and security coordination with international partners. This recent surge in hostilities follows the collapse of a UN-brokered ceasefire in July 2026 and coincides with Houthi territorial gains along Yemen's Red Sea coast.

The escalating conflict has led several countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Japan, to update their travel advisories for Saudi Arabia. Many governments now recommend reconsidering or avoiding all but essential travel to the kingdom, specifically highlighting risks associated with airports and regions near the Yemeni border. The disruptions have caused temporary closures and significant flight cancellations at major Saudi airports by various international airlines.