Houthis Issue New Warning on Riyadh’s King Khalid Airport

Houthi warning issued

On Sunday, the Yemen‑aligned Houthi movement reiterated its caution to airlines, airport staff and travellers that Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport is unsafe and remains a military target. The warning was issued by Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree, who said that operations targeting the airport would continue. The statement was issued shortly after the airport authority revealed that domestic services would be moved to Terminal 1, while international routes flown by national airlines would shift to Terminal 2 beginning on 25 October. The split was intended to resume services after a suspension that began on 10 October.

Background of the suspension

The airport’s operations were halted on 10 October following an attack that the Houthis claimed responsibility for. The strike killed 13 people and wounded more than 300, making it the deadliest incident at a Saudi airport in more than a decade. Two days later, the suspension was extended. By launching ballistic missiles and drones toward Saudi ports, airports, and oil facilities, the Houthis have effectively made the kingdom a focal point of pressure within the broader Yemeni conflict. Saudi Arabia has intensified its military engagement in Yemen by targeting Houthi strongholds and backing a government counter-attack, a move taken after the rebel group captured key areas along the Red Sea coastline in September.

Why it matters

The warning is significant for airlines and passengers who rely on King Khalid Airport for domestic and international travel. The airport is a key hub for Saudi Arabia’s aviation network, and any disruption can affect flight schedules, cargo operations and the broader economy. The Houthi claim that the airport remains a military target underscores the ongoing security risks in the region. The attack that triggered the suspension resulted in 13 fatalities and over 300 injuries, highlighting the severity of the incident and the potential for further escalation. The continued threat of missile and drone attacks on Saudi infrastructure could have wider implications for regional stability and international supply chains.

What happens next

According to the sources, the airport will resume operations from 25 October, with domestic flights handled at Terminal 1 and international flights at Terminal 2. No further dates or decisions were announced beyond the split‑terminal arrangement. The Houthis have not indicated any change to their warning, and the situation remains fluid as Saudi Arabia continues its military actions in Yemen.

The information above is drawn directly from reports by Middle East Eye, Bangkok Post, Al‑Monitor, Straits Times World and Reuters, all published on 25 October 2026.