International Reactions to Houthi Attack on Riyadh Airport

The Houthi group has been accused by Saudi Arabia of carrying out an attack on Riyadh's international airport that resulted in at least 12 fatalities and approximately 300 injuries. The victims included four Saudis, two individuals from Bangladesh, and one person each from the United States, Jordan, Palestine, Syria, Sudan, and Egypt, according to the Saudi civil aviation authority. This incident marks the deadliest attack in Saudi Arabia in over a decade. The assault occurred amidst escalating conflict in Yemen, where the Houthis are engaged in combat with forces aligned with the internationally recognized Yemeni government. Saudi Arabia is conducting an air campaign against the Houthis to support the Yemeni government's ground efforts against the Iran-backed group. US President Donald Trump characterized the attack as 'terrible' and indicated that he would discuss the situation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He mentioned that the US is considering whether to join Saudi Arabia in its military actions against the Houthis. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that an American was among the casualties and condemned the attacks. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his shock and condemnation of the attack, emphasizing that such actions violate international law. Hans Grundberg, the UN special envoy for Yemen, described the attacks on civilian airports as a significant escalation that threatens regional security. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the attacks as 'abhorrent', while the Egyptian and Qatari governments issued strong condemnations, highlighting violations of international law and threats to regional security. Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs labeled the attack a 'heinous act of terrorism', and Jordan's King Abdullah expressed condolences and solidarity with Saudi Arabia. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also voiced support for Saudi Arabia's security measures. Japan's embassy in Saudi Arabia condemned the Houthi attacks, stating that assaults on civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances.