A projectile strike targeted the passenger terminal at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Sunday, following a missile strike on Saturday that resulted in the deaths of twelve individuals. This information has been reported by the Saudi-led coalition engaged in combat against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for both attacks, and Saudi officials have confirmed that injuries occurred in the recent strike on the airport complex, which services terminals three and four for domestic flights.

According to authorities, the missile assault on Saturday was the deadliest attack within a Gulf Arab nation since the onset of hostilities related to the ongoing conflict with Iran. Furthermore, it has been reported that the airport remained closed on Sunday due to the escalation of violence, and India’s embassy in Saudi Arabia announced the death of one of its citizens from injuries sustained during the previous day’s assault, raising the death toll to thirteen.

In addition, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam allegedly suffered an attack over the weekend, though only scant details have been provided regarding that incident. The escalation of conflict has also turned the spotlight on oil supplies and prices, as well as commercial shipping through the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Potential for Increased US Military Involvement

The recent events have led to discussions about potential US military involvement. President Donald Trump indicated that he was considering an active role in addressing the Houthi threat and was set to speak with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has sought international assistance in the ongoing conflict. However, there was no immediate response from the White House on Sunday regarding these discussions.

Reports suggest that Saudi Arabia is facing challenges with missile interceptors, having sought air defence support from France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt in light of dwindling stockpiles. Sources indicate that the US has also seen its supply diminish during the protracted conflict with Iran. The fallout from these attacks raises concerns about the safety of international air travel, prompting several airlines to suspend flights to and from Saudi Arabia.

Notably, the attack occurred while Saudi Arabia was hosting an international energy conference, alongside other significant events focused on investment. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been working to bolster the country’s image as a hub for business and tourism, although the Houthi strikes represent a significant threat to these objectives. Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud expressed confidence in the kingdom’s resilience, stating that efforts were underway to establish new pipelines.

Impact of the Conflict on Civilians and Regional Dynamics

On the same day as the Riyadh airport strike, the Houthi-run health ministry reported that a child had been killed and six others wounded due to a suspected Saudi airstrike on a home in the capital, Sanaa. The ministry also stated that, over five weeks, 91 Yemenis, predominantly women and children, had died as a result of the Saudi-led coalition’s actions.

Furthermore, the Houthis alleged that they had targeted the airport in Dammam as well as various oil and gas installations within eastern Saudi Arabia. Since Wednesday, the rebels have claimed daily attacks on Riyadh airport, warning airlines and travellers about the risks associated with using Saudi airports and airspace, which they consider vulnerable to further attacks.

Overall, the latest incidents have intensified fears of an expanding conflict involving critical infrastructure, including airports and oil facilities, which are vital to both regional and global economic stability. The situation remains fluid, with continuing hostilities likely to shape the dynamics within the region for the foreseeable future.

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