A loud explosion resonated at King Khaled International Airport in Riyadh on Saturday, marking a significant escalation in security tensions in the Saudi capital. This incident follows a reported strike by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group just two days earlier, which reportedly resulted in three deaths, multiple injuries, and damage to a Saudia aircraft. Eyewitnesses and sources familiar with the situation confirmed the sound of the blast, though official details from Saudi government authorities and the civil aviation agency remained pending as of Saturday evening.
The recurring attacks have caused significant disruption to air travel, forcing several international carriers to adjust their operations. In response to the unstable security environment, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways have cancelled a series of flights connecting their regional hubs to Riyadh, with some service disruptions scheduled to continue through Monday. The airport authority has advised all passengers to proactively check for flight status updates and remain in contact with their respective airlines before heading to the airport for departures.
Indian carriers are also responding to the regional volatility. Sources indicated that Air India has officially extended the suspension of its flights to and from Riyadh until October 15, 2026. The airline stated that it is keeping a close watch on the situation and is offering full refunds to passengers affected by the cancellations. These security challenges emerge as Riyadh prepares to host a series of prominent energy and investment summits. The recent incidents highlight the ongoing threat posed by the Houthi group, whose missile attacks have increasingly targeted infrastructure within the Saudi capital, prompting heightened concerns regarding regional stability and the safety of international aviation routes in the coming days.
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