Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport was hit by a projectile on Sunday. This marks the second attack in two days. The Saudi military reported that the missile struck Passenger Hall No. 4, causing a fire and injuries among passengers. This incident follows a deadly strike on Saturday that killed 13 people and injured 308 others, according to Saudi officials.
Key Details
The Houthi movement in Yemen claimed responsibility for both attacks. They stated they targeted the airport with ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as drones. Brig Gen Yahya Saree, a Houthi military spokesman, warned that all Saudi airports, except those in Mecca and Medina, are potential targets. He described the ongoing operations as part of a strategy to retaliate against Saudi Arabia’s role in Yemen's civil war.
In response to the attacks, the Saudi-led coalition condemned the strikes as war crimes and vowed to retaliate. Maj Gen Turki al-Maliki, a spokesman for the coalition, stated that air defenses intercepted a missile near the airport during the latest attack. The coalition has been engaged in a military campaign against the Houthis since 2015, after the group took over Yemen's capital.
Background
US President Donald Trump indicated that the US would consider military action against the Houthis. UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting suggested the UK could increase its support for Saudi Arabia. The recent strikes represent a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, which has seen rising tensions and violence in the region.
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The rise in attacks on Saudi infrastructure could affect oil prices. Disruptions to operations at key facilities may raise concerns about supply stability. Investors will watch for further developments, especially any military responses from the Saudi-led coalition or the US. These actions could impact regional stability and energy markets.
Based on reporting by: bbc.co.uk, moneycontrol.com