Saudi Arabia Running Low on Interceptor Missiles Amid Houthi Strikes
Saudi Arabia is running low on interceptor missiles as Houthi strikes on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport lead to rising fatalities.
Saudi Arabia is facing a critical shortage of interceptor missiles required to defend its airspace against escalating attacks from Houthi rebel groups, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ). The shortage comes at a perilous time as intensified strikes by the Yemeni rebels have turned parts of the Saudi capital into a potential combat zone.
Rising Death Toll at Riyadh Airport
The urgency regarding missile supplies follows a devastating strike on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport on October 10. The attack, which caused widespread destruction, has resulted in a rising death toll. The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) confirmed that the incident left 12 people dead, including four Saudi citizens and residents of various nationalities, with 309 others injured.
The casualties represent a diverse range of nationalities, including citizens from:
- Bangladesh
- United States
- Egypt
- Jordan
- Syria
- Palestine
- Sudan
The tragedy has also impacted Indian citizens. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh confirmed that one Indian national injured in the airport attack has passed away. While several other Indian nationals are receiving treatment—with three currently in intensive care—others have been discharged from the hospital.
Civilian Infrastructure Under Fire
The Houthi attacks are increasingly reaching deep into Saudi territory, striking areas more than 500 miles from the Yemeni border. The impact on civilian life has been profound and terrifying. Recent incidents include:
- Kindergarten and Clinic Hit: Debris from an intercepted ballistic missile struck a kindergarten and a medical clinic complex on Thursday.
- Airport Disruptions: Operations at King Khalid International Airport were temporarily suspended following the October 10 strike to allow for safety inspections and damage assessments.
- Previous Strikes: Attacks on King Khalid and Abha International Airports on October 6 and 7 had already resulted in three deaths and 36 injuries.
Houthi Warnings to International Travelers
As the security situation deteriorates, Houthi military spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Saree has issued a stern warning to the global community. In a statement released via Telegram, Saree urged international airlines, businesses, and travelers to avoid flying to Saudi airports, labeling them unsafe.
"We reiterate our warning to all international companies, experts, employees, workers, and travelers from all over the world to not operate flights to Saudi airports, as they are unsafe, except for the airports and airspace of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina,"Saree stated.
The reported depletion of Saudi Arabia's missile-defense capabilities, combined with the continuous threats from Houthi forces, has created a state of high alert and heightened anxiety regarding the safety of civilian infrastructure and air travel across the region.