Following a deadly missile and drone assault by Houthi forces on Riyadh International Airport, international condemnation has intensified. The October 10 attack resulted in a death toll rising to 13 victims, which includes one Indian national, alongside 11 other Indian nationals who sustained injuries, as reported by the Indian Embassy.
The Devastating Strike and Casualties
The assault on Riyadh airport unfolded on October 10, capturing widespread global attention as new video footage emerged showing the exact moment the missile struck the facility. According to updates, the confirmed death toll climbed to 13 people. Among the casualties was an Indian national, marking a tragic direct impact on the Indian expatriate community in the region.
In addition to the fatalities, the Indian Embassy confirmed that 11 Indian nationals were injured in the strikes. Local authorities have been working to manage the aftermath of the infrastructure hit, with the Indian diplomatic mission actively extending support to those affected.
Strong Condemnation from New Delhi
In response to the escalation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Indian officials issued robust condemnations. The MEA forcefully condemned the repeated Houthi strikes targeting civilians and civil infrastructure.
New Delhi's diplomatic stance has centered on an urgent appeal for de-escalation. India called for an immediate cessation of strikes against civilian installations, aligning with broader international condemnation of the Houthi assault on the Saudi capital's primary aviation hub.
Regional Security Implications
The latest escalation underscores the persistent vulnerabilities facing civilian aviation and infrastructure in the region amid ongoing cross-border missile and drone campaigns. With multiple nations joining India in condemning the aggression, diplomatic pressure is mounting to halt attacks that breach civilian safety and impact expatriate populations residing in the Gulf.