The death toll following the October 10 attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has increased to 14, according to an update provided by the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. A second Indian national, who had been receiving critical care in an intensive care unit since the strike, has succumbed to their injuries.
The identity of the deceased individual has not been disclosed by authorities. In a statement regarding the ongoing support efforts, the Indian Embassy confirmed it has maintained constant communication with the victim’s family throughout the duration of their hospitalization. Officials stated that the mission is prepared to facilitate the repatriation of the mortal remains to India or assist with funeral arrangements in Riyadh, depending on the preferences of the grieving family.
The attack, which Saudi Arabia has attributed to Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, resulted in significant casualties and injuries among airport staff and travelers. While the Houthi group has not issued an official claim of responsibility for this specific strike, the incident occurred during a period of heightened hostilities and increased targeting of Saudi infrastructure. The strike remains a point of concern as it aligns with a broader pattern of escalation within the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
Initial reports following the event suggested a toll of 12 deaths and 309 injuries, figures that were provided by Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation. This number has gradually risen as critically wounded patients lost their battles for survival. The first Indian national to die in the attack was identified as Mohammed Yousuf Ali; his funeral rites were conducted in Riyadh on October 12.
Information released by the Indian Embassy on October 23 indicated that at least 11 Indian citizens were among those wounded. At that time, two patients remained in the intensive care unit, while two others were being treated in general hospital wards, and seven individuals had been successfully discharged. The passing of the second Indian victim marks a somber development in the aftermath of the October incident.
The incident at King Khalid International Airport is part of a wider regional instability affecting expatriate communities. Reports suggest that the number of Indian nationals killed in broader regional conflicts since February has reached 24, a figure that includes 15 seafarers. The situation remains under close observation by diplomatic missions as they continue to provide necessary support to injured Indian citizens and the families of those who lost their lives in the violence.
As the investigation into the security breach and the attack continues, the regional authorities are managing the recovery efforts. The embassy continues to coordinate with local hospitals and Saudi officials to monitor the condition of the remaining survivors. Future updates regarding the health status of those still hospitalized are expected to be shared by the mission as they become available.
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