Netanyahu Condemns Houthi Attack on Riyadh Airport

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a strong condemnation on Sunday of the Houthi attack that occurred on Saturday at Riyadh Airport in Saudi Arabia. "I condemn in the strongest possible terms the horrific terrorist attack at the Riyadh airport," Netanyahu stated. He extended condolences on behalf of Israeli citizens to the families of the victims and wished a full recovery to the injured. Netanyahu asserted that terrorism targets innocent people and seeks to spread fear and instability, emphasizing that it must be confronted with determination. He expressed Israel's expectation for a strong Middle East that stands united against threats, protects its residents, and builds a future of security, cooperation, and prosperity for all regional peoples.

The Houthi missile struck Riyadh International Airport, resulting in 12 fatalities and 309 injuries. The Houthi military spokesperson, identified as Yahya Sarea, issued a statement warning airlines, workers, and passengers against using Saudi airports and airspace, claiming they serve as operational zones for Houthi forces. Sarea reiterated the Houthis' determination to enforce declared equations of "airport for airport, siege for siege, and escalation for escalation" until their objectives are met. He also blamed Saudi Arabia for the consequences of any failed attempts to intercept Houthi missiles and declared all areas of Saudi Arabia, except for Mecca and Medina, as potential zones for Houthi operations.

U.S. President Donald Trump called the attack "terrible" and "unacceptable." He indicated that the United States might join the fight and assist Saudi Arabia against the Yemeni rebels, though he clarified that no decision had been made. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also expressed "deep shock" over the airport attack. Germany and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, also condemned the incident.