Story perspectives

Houthi Missiles Hit Riyadh Airport, Trump Weighs U.S. Role

By Drooid · Oct 12, 2026, 2:19 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Houthi rebels struck Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport with missiles, killing at least four and injuring dozens.
Saudi officials reported intercepted missiles, noted air-defence gaps, and moved schools online.
Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed the group also hit Dammam’s King Fahd Airport and two Aramco facilities.
U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States is evaluating joining Saudi strikes against the Houthis.

History

Historical Context

In early 1991 Iraq fired 88 Scud missiles, 47 into Saudi Arabia, forcing General Norman Schwarzkopf’s coalition to send Patriot batteries to defend Riyadh. The modest success exposed air-defence gaps, prompting a permanent U.S. presence in Saudi Arabia and calls for Saudi missile-shield upgrades. Houthi strikes on King Khalid International Airport now echo those 1991 attacks, reviving the same security concerns.

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Story summary

Houthi rebels struck Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport with missiles, killing at least four and injuring dozens.
Saudi officials reported intercepted missiles, noted air-defence gaps, and moved schools online.
Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed the group also hit Dammam’s King Fahd Airport and two Aramco facilities.
U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States is evaluating joining Saudi strikes against the Houthis.

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