Saudi media outlet Ajel has claimed that eight Bangladeshis were killed in a missile attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. However, reports from international news agencies, including Reuters, indicate that two Bangladeshis were killed. This discrepancy has led to confusion regarding the actual number of Bangladeshi casualties in the attack.
On Sunday (October 11), the English edition of the Saudi news outlet Ajel published a report stating that eight Bangladeshis were killed. The news outlet cited the Saudi Arabian General Authority of Civil Aviation for this information.
Conversely, reports from international news agencies Reuters and Associated Press stated that a total of 12 people were killed and 309 injured in the attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Saturday (October 10). Among the deceased, two were reported to be Bangladeshis.
These reports, citing Saudi authorities, mentioned that among the fatalities were four Saudi nationals, along with citizens from Bangladesh, the United States, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Palestine, and Sudan.
Panic spread throughout the airport following the attack. Passengers were evacuated to safe areas, and the injured were admitted to various hospitals. Airport operations were temporarily disrupted due to security concerns, with several flights cancelled or diverted to other airports.
International media reports indicate that Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for the attack. The Saudi-led military coalition has condemned the attack and announced a strong response.
Meanwhile, the news of Bangladeshi casualties in the attack has caused concern. However, reliable information regarding the names, identities, and hometowns of the deceased Bangladeshis is not yet available.
Specifically, given the discrepancy between Saudi media outlet Ajel’s claim of eight Bangladeshi fatalities and international media reports of two, further confirmation on the matter is deemed necessary.
As of the time of this report, independent confirmation of the claim of eight Bangladeshi fatalities has not been received. A clearer understanding of the actual number of Bangladeshi casualties will be available once official statements from the Bangladesh Embassy or relevant authorities are obtained.
