Following a devastating attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, which left at least 12 people dead, the United States is considering new military actions in the ongoing Middle East conflict. Discussions are underway in Washington regarding direct participation in Saudi Arabia’s military operations against Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels, as well as the possibility of renewed strikes against Iran.
These details emerged from a live report by Qatar-based news agency Al Jazeera on Sunday (October 11).
Al Jazeera reported that at least 12 people were killed and 309 injured in Saturday’s attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Airport operations were severely disrupted following the attack. Several flights were cancelled or diverted to other airports due to security concerns.
After the attack, journalists asked US President Donald Trump whether the United States would directly participate in Saudi Arabia’s military operations against the Houthis.
In response, Trump stated that Washington was seriously considering the matter, and a decision might be made after reviewing the circumstances of the latest attack.
Following the US President’s statement, the possibility of direct US military action against the Houthis has re-emerged in discussions.
Hint of New Attacks on Iran
Al Jazeera’s live update reported that Trump is also considering renewed strikes against Iran, in addition to participating in military operations against the Houthis.
However, no official announcement has yet been made regarding any new orders for attacks against Iran or a final decision by the US to directly join the war against the Houthis.
Washington’s stance amidst the ongoing conflict centered on Iran has further heightened the uncertainty of the security situation in the Middle East.
12 Killed in Riyadh Airport Attack
According to Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation, at least 12 people were killed and 309 others injured in Saturday’s attack.
Among the deceased were foreign nationals. Reports from international news outlets also indicated Bangladeshi casualties.
Emergency rescue operations began in the airport area after the attack. The injured were taken to various hospitals. International and domestic flights were disrupted due to the security situation.
In recent times, Riyadh’s important airports and infrastructure have been targeted by multiple attacks. Following the latest attack, Saudi authorities have strengthened security measures.
Saudi Arabia Takes Firm Stance Against Houthis
The Saudi-led coalition has announced strict military measures against Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels.
Coalition spokesman Major General Turki Al-Maliki condemned the attack on the civilian airport as a violation of international humanitarian law and stated that a response to the attack would be forthcoming.
Meanwhile, a drone launched towards Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province was reportedly intercepted. The Saudi-led coalition stated that the drone was destroyed before reaching its target.
Fear of Conflict Further Expanding
Amidst the ongoing war in the Middle East, clashes between Saudi-backed forces and Houthis in Yemen have intensified. Tensions, particularly around the crucial Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital waterway in the Red Sea, have raised concerns for international trade and regional security.
In this situation, if the United States directly participates in military operations against the Houthis, the scope of the conflict could expand further. Simultaneously, new attacks on Iran would likely escalate regional tensions.
However, Washington has not yet announced a final decision regarding its next military steps. Therefore, the international community is closely watching the potential actions of the United States.
Source: Al Jazeera.