Saudi Arabia says three killed at airport as Yemen war expands
Saudi Arabia reported that three people were killed in attacks on Riyadh's international airport, which were claimed by Houthi forces. The incident marks an escalation in the conflict as Houthi fighters continue to target Saudi infrastructure with drones and missiles.
Why it matters
The expansion of the Yemen conflict into Saudi civilian infrastructure poses significant risks to regional stability and international air travel.
Houthi supporters carry weapons as they gather in solidarity with the movement as fighting intensifies across several fronts, in Sanaa, Yemen, Oct 7, 2026. (Photo: REUTERS/Mohammed al-Mahdi)
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia said on Friday (Oct 9) that three people including a pilot were killed in attacks on Riyadh's international airport the day before, after Yemen's Houthis claimed a series of attacks targeting the facility.
The conflict between the Houthis and Yemen's Saudi-backed government has spilt over into the kingdom, with the Iran-backed fighters staging repeated attacks on Saudi targets since launching a lightning offensive just across the border.
In addition to seizing large swathes of territory along the Red Sea coast in Yemen, the Houthis have used missiles and drones to attack Saudi transport hubs, oil facilities and other civilian targets in the world's largest crude exporter.
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