Saudi Arabia News: At least one aircraft was reportedly severely damaged at Riyadh airport on Thursday following multiple explosions heard across the Saudi capital, according to two sources familiar with the matter who spoke to AFP.
One source described the damage to at least one aircraft as catastrophic, while another said three planes had been struck. The circumstances surrounding the reported damage and the extent of the impact on airport operations remained unclear.
Yemen’s Houthi movement announced three separate attacks targeting the airport on Thursday, raising concerns over aviation security and the wider escalation of tensions in the Middle East.
Videos Show Smoke at Riyadh Airport
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show smoke rising from the Riyadh airport complex following the reported explosions. One video allegedly showed an aircraft being hit while parked on the tarmac.
However, the footage could not be independently verified, and the precise circumstances surrounding the reported aircraft damage remained unconfirmed.
The reports emerged hours after multiple explosions were heard across Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital and a major regional aviation hub.
Houthis Claim Three Separate Attacks
Yemen’s Houthi movement announced that it had carried out three separate attacks targeting the airport on Thursday. The claims came amid heightened regional tensions and concerns about the security of critical infrastructure across the Middle East.
The reported incident could have implications for aviation safety and regional air travel, depending on the extent of the damage and any resulting operational restrictions.
Further details regarding the aircraft involved, possible casualties and the response from Saudi authorities were not immediately available in the information provided.
Regional Security Concerns Grow
The reported attack has added to concerns over the vulnerability of airports and other strategic infrastructure amid escalating hostilities in the region.
Riyadh serves as a key centre for government, commerce and international travel in Saudi Arabia. Any disruption to airport operations could affect airlines, passengers and regional connectivity.
Authorities’ confirmation of the damage, the identification of the affected aircraft and independent verification of the circulating footage will be important in establishing the full extent of the incident.
Further developments are awaited.
