Riyadh: An Indian national from Hyderabad has died after being injured in a missile attack at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, raising the reported death toll to 13. More than 300 people were injured in the October 10 attack, which has intensified concerns over civilian safety amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The deceased, Mohammad Yousuf Ali, was travelling to Medina to perform Umrah when the incident occurred. Several members of his family were also affected, with his wife, children and aunt among those caught in the attack.
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia confirmed Ali’s death on Sunday and expressed condolences to his family. The embassy said it was in contact with his relatives and would provide assistance to ensure the early repatriation of his remains to India.
According to information shared by AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, Ali’s family suffered serious injuries. One of his sons was undergoing knee surgery, while another was hospitalised with injuries that reportedly included the loss of three toes. His daughter and wife were safe, while his aunt sustained head injuries but was reported to be out of danger.
The missile struck the airport complex housing Terminals 3 and 4, which handle domestic flights. The incident raised fresh concerns about the vulnerability of civilian infrastructure to missile attacks as regional hostilities continue to intensify.
India strongly condemned the strike, describing repeated attacks on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport as unacceptable. New Delhi expressed concern over the loss of lives, injuries and damage to property, reiterating the need to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.
A Saudi led coalition blamed Iran backed Houthi rebels in neighbouring Yemen for the attack. The reported casualties included Saudi citizens and foreign nationals from several countries, highlighting the international impact of the incident.
The attack has added to concerns over the safety of travellers, migrant workers and other foreign nationals in the region. Indian authorities are assisting the deceased’s family as efforts continue to bring his remains home.
The incident underscores the growing humanitarian risks posed by the expanding regional conflict, particularly for civilians travelling through major transport hubs in the Middle East.
