Houthi Attack on Riyadh Airport Kills 12, Threatens Global Energy Routes

The attack caused extensive damage to the airport terminal, disrupted operations, and forced flight diversions. According to Now 14, the fatalities included four Saudi citizens, two from Bangladesh, and one each from the United States, Jordan, Palestine, Syria, Sudan, and Egypt. The incident marks the deadliest attack on Saudi soil in over a decade. On Sunday, a subsequent projectile struck a passenger terminal at the airport, and Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree warned of further attacks and an aerial blockade of Saudi Arabia.

Netanyahu's public statement is considered highly unusual because Israel and Saudi Arabia do not share official diplomatic relations. In his message, Netanyahu called for a determined fight against terrorism, which he said aims to spread fear and instability. He expressed Israel's aspiration for a strong Middle East that stands united against threats, protects its citizens, and builds a future of security, cooperation, and prosperity. Analysts and media outlets viewed the rare gesture as a strategic effort to align with Saudi Arabia against Iran and its proxies, and as a push toward normalization.