<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/delta-air-lines/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Delta Air Lines</a> has delayed its planned nonstop flight service between Atlanta and Riyadh, <a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/saudi-arabia/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Saudi Arabia</a>, due to recent Houthi strikes that resulted in over a dozen fatalities and hundreds of injuries at the Riyadh airport over the weekend.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Delta stated, “The safety and security of our customers and employees always come first and continue to guide our operational decisions.” The airline is in communication with government and aviation partners, including Saudia and Riyadh Air, to monitor the situation.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The flight route is anticipated to launch next spring, contingent on a reduction in tensions in the Middle East.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Delta emphasized the importance of the Saudi market, stating, “We are committed to serving the Kingdom for the long-term,” and expressed hopes to connect Saudi Arabia to its global network by March 2027.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This announcement follows a recent aerial attack on King Khalid International Airport, which resulted in one death and 11 injuries. The previous attack was more severe, with 12 fatalities and over 300 injuries, including an American citizen, prompting a statement of solidarity from Secretary of State <a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/marco-rubio/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Marco Rubio</a>.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">President <a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/donald-trump/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> is considering involvement in the Saudi conflict against the Houthis, who claimed responsibility for both attacks. He plans to consult with Saudi Crown Prince <a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/mohammed-bin-salman/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mohammed bin Salman</a> before making a decision.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Houthi attacks are part of a broader conflict involving Iran, as the Houthis are a Yemen-based rebel group supported by the Iranian regime.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Saudi officials are currently investigating the failure of the nation’s air defense system to intercept the missiles and drones during the attacks.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">King Khalid International Airport is temporarily closed for the remainder of the week, with over 2,000 flights canceled or disrupted due to the incidents.</p>