India Slams Attacks on Saudi Infrastructure; Indian National Killed
India condemns strikes on King Fahd Airport and Aramco oil field after an Indian national was killed and others injured in the attacks.
India has issued a strong condemnation following a series of targeted strikes on civilian and energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. The attacks, which occurred on October 21, hit critical sites including the King Fahd International Airport and Saudi Aramco’s Shaybah oil field, resulting in casualties and sparking international concern.
Tragedy for Indian Nationals
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the violence has taken a toll on Indian citizens residing in the Kingdom. In the attack targeting the King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, one Indian national tragically lost their life, while two others sustained injuries.
Further casualties were reported at the Shaybah oil field in the Eastern Province, where another Indian citizen was injured during the strike. The MEA expressed deep condolences to the family of the deceased and extended wishes for the quick recovery of those wounded.
Diplomatic Response and Solidarity
The Indian government has made it clear that strikes on civilian and critical infrastructure are "completely unacceptable" and must stop immediately. In an official statement, the MEA emphasized India's solidarity with both the people and the Government of Saudi Arabia in their efforts to protect national sovereignty.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh is currently working closely with Saudi authorities to provide all necessary assistance to the affected families and individuals.
Casualty Details from Saudi Authorities
The Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) provided a detailed breakdown of the fatalities and injuries from the Dammam airport attack. According to GACA, two people were killed: one Saudi citizen and one Indian resident.
The authority reported a total of eight injuries, involving individuals of various nationalities:
- 2 Indian nationals
- 2 Yemeni nationals
- 2 Bangladeshi nationals
- 1 Nepalese national
- 1 Saudi citizen
Recovery and Infrastructure Status
Following the chaos, GACA stated that it is coordinating with relevant agencies to conduct a full damage assessment and verify the safety of all facilities. The primary goal remains ensuring the security of passengers and personnel within the Saudi civil aviation system.
Despite the severity of the attack, officials have confirmed that operations at King Fahd International Airport have resumed and air traffic has returned to normal. India continues to express hope that peace and normalcy will return to the region as soon as possible.