Pakistani national killed as Houthi strike hits Riyadh airport, 11 injured

A Pakistani national was killed and 11 people were injured after a fresh Houthi attack struck King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, October 11, 2026. The incident came a day after another deadly strike disrupted airport operations and caused multiple casualties.

Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation authority confirmed the latest casualties in a statement shared on social media. The Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthis also reported that a projectile hit the airport and triggered a fire, while air defence systems intercepted another missile in the surrounding area.

The Houthi group claimed responsibility for several attacks over the previous 24 hours, including the strike on Riyadh airport. It also threatened further attacks on Saudi Arabia’s major transport hubs, describing them as potential targets for its forces.

Following the latest incident, authorities extended the airport’s closure for another 24 hours. Aviation tracking service Flightradar24 reported that the suspension would remain in effect until 9pm GMT on Monday, equivalent to 2am Pakistan Standard Time. Aviation sources also reported damage to radar and communication equipment, while runways required further assessment.

The attacks have intensified concerns over security in Saudi Arabia, which has supported Yemen’s internationally recognised government in its conflict with the Houthis since 2015. The group has increasingly targeted strategic locations across the kingdom, including airports and other critical infrastructure.

Saudi authorities also reported attacks targeting Dammam airport in the country’s east. The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted a drone in the region and later destroyed a ballistic missile heading towards Khamis Mushait, a southern Saudi city that hosts a major military base.

The latest violence followed a deadly attack on Saturday that killed several people and injured hundreds, according to Saudi authorities. The incident prompted international condemnation and renewed concerns about the potential expansion of the conflict.

The United Nations and several world leaders denounced the attacks. US President Donald Trump said he was considering joining Saudi strikes against the Houthis, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also condemned the assault.

The airport disruptions have raised particular concerns as Saudi Arabia prepares for its busy tourism and religious travel season. October typically marks the beginning of increased Umrah travel, with millions of Muslims visiting Makkah in the coming months.