Hyderabad Man Killed in Riyadh Airport Attack During Umrah Trip
A Hyderabad family's Umrah pilgrimage turned tragic as Mohammad Yousuf Ali was killed in a Riyadh airport attack, leaving several family members injured.
A spiritual journey intended for prayer and devotion has transformed into a nightmare for a family from Hyderabad. 46-year-old Mohammad Yousuf Ali, a resident of Mehdipatnam, lost his life following a devastating strike at the Riyadh airport while he was en route to perform Umrah.
The incident occurred while the family was waiting at the airport terminal, preparing for their journey to Madinah. The strike reportedly caused a portion of the airport terminal roof to collapse, leading to casualties and multiple injuries among the travelers.
Tragedy Strikes During Pilgrimage
The victim, Mohammad Yousuf Ali, who resided in Grace Apartments, Mehdipatnam, succumbed to his injuries following the attack. While the loss of a family member has left the household in mourning, several other members of the group were caught in the chaos of the structural collapse.
The impact on the family members is as follows:
- Sameera (Wife): Reported to be safe.
- Maryam (Daughter): Reported to be safe.
- Sons: Both sons sustained injuries; one is currently in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and has undergone surgery.
- Atya Sultana (Aunt): Suffered head injuries but is reported to be out of danger.
Political Leaders Seek Urgent Intervention
Hyderabad MP and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has brought the tragedy to light, sharing updates regarding the family's condition. Owaisi confirmed that he has been in contact with the victim's brother-in-law, Ikram, to monitor the situation closely.
In a bid to secure aid for the grieving and injured family, the MP has reached out to high-level diplomatic channels. Owaisi has contacted the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and has formally urged External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and senior diplomat Vikram Misri to intervene. The goal is to ensure the family receives comprehensive medical care and necessary logistical support during this crisis.
Context of the Attack
The strike at the Riyadh airport comes amidst heightened tensions in the region. Yemeni Houthi forces have claimed responsibility for a series of major operations involving ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones targeting Saudi airports and energy infrastructure. The group has declared Saudi airspace unsafe, with the specific exception of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
As Indian diplomatic authorities coordinate assistance for the survivors, the family from Hyderabad remains under medical supervision in Saudi Arabia, grappling with a tragedy that has turned a sacred pilgrimage into a scene of immense grief.