UN chief condemns attack on Saudi airport, demands end to strikes

Smoke and flames rise from King Khalid Airport, after Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis said they attacked the airport, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, October 8, 2026, in this screengrab obtained from a social media video. Social Media/via REUTERS

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the deadly attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, calling for an immediate end to attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure.

Guterres, in a statement issued on Saturday, October 10, 2026, said the attack reportedly killed 12 people and injured hundreds of civilians.

“I am deeply shocked by and strongly condemn Saturday’s lethal attack by the Houthis on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which reportedly killed 12 people and injured hundreds of civilians,” he said.

The UN chief added, “Attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are a violation of international law. These attacks must cease immediately.”

The statement was published on the United Nations Secretary-General’s official website.

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PUNCH Online had earlier reported the blast at the Saudi airport on Saturday, which left several people injured and prompted evacuations from parts of the facility.

The attack has drawn international condemnation, with governments and international officials expressing concern over civilian casualties and the security of Saudi Arabia’s aviation infrastructure.

Tosin Oyediran is a journalist with Punch Newspapers, bringing over eight years of newsroom experience to his coverage of politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment. Known for sharp interviews and human-centered reporting, his work focuses on public accountability, civic issues, and the stories shaping everyday lives.

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