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Houthis claim responsibility for attack near Riyadh airport

Smoke was observed rising near King Khalid International Airport in Saudi Arabia's capital on Wednesday, with Houthi rebels claiming responsibility for the incident. The attack triggered significant flight disruptions at one of the region's busiest aviation hubs.

LSN World News · 19 September 2026

Houthis claim responsibility for attack near Riyadh airport

Houthi forces claimed they launched an attack targeting the vicinity of King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, according to statements from the Yemen-based militant group. Witnesses reported smoke visible near the airport following the alleged strike, which occurred amid heightened tensions in the conflict zone.

The incident led to extensive flight delays and disruptions throughout Wednesday as airport authorities implemented security protocols and conducted assessments of the situation. Commercial operations at the facility, which serves as a major regional transportation hub, were affected for several hours.

The claimed attack represents the latest escalation in the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and Houthi rebels based in Yemen. The Iran-aligned group has conducted previous strikes targeting infrastructure and civilian installations across Saudi territory, prompting repeated military responses from the kingdom and its allies.

Saudi officials have not yet released an official statement regarding the incident or confirmed specific details about the nature of any attack. International aviation authorities continue to monitor the security situation affecting air traffic in the region.