RIYADH — A devastating attack struck King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh early Thursday morning, leaving at least 12 people dead and over 300 others injured, according to a statement released by Saudi security officials.
The assault, which authorities have described as a “coordinated act of terrorism,” caused widespread panic and significant structural damage to the airport’s main terminal. Emergency responders rushed to the scene shortly after the first explosion rocked the facility at approximately 8:15 a.m. local time, sending plumes of thick, black smoke billowing into the sky above the Saudi capital.
Medical facilities across Riyadh were placed on high alert as dozens of ambulances and emergency vehicles navigated through the chaotic aftermath. Interior Ministry spokesperson Mansour Al-Turki confirmed that the casualties include both airport staff and travelers. While the identities of the deceased have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin, officials noted that a significant number of the 300 wounded sustained injuries ranging from blast-related trauma to critical burns.
“Our security forces are conducting a thorough investigation to identify those responsible for this heinous act,” Al-Turki said in a televised briefing. “We are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring that the safety and security of our people and visitors remain our highest priority.”
Witnesses described a scene of absolute terror as the blasts shattered glass facades and forced travelers to flee toward the tarmac. “I was checking my bags when the ground shook beneath me,” said Ahmed Al-Shammari, a passenger waiting for a flight to Dubai. “Everyone started screaming and running in every direction. It was a nightmare. I have never seen anything like this in Riyadh.”
The impact on regional transit has been immediate. All flights in and out of King Khalid International Airport have been suspended indefinitely, leading to a ripple effect of delays and cancellations across Middle Eastern air travel hubs. Security has been heightened significantly at other major transport centers throughout the Kingdom as a precautionary measure.
Global leaders have begun to issue condemnations of the attack. The United Nations Security Council issued a brief statement calling the event an “unjustifiable act of violence,” while various regional governments have expressed their solidarity with the Kingdom.
As of Thursday afternoon, no group has officially claimed responsibility for the carnage. Saudi intelligence services remain on high alert, and authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid the airport perimeter while forensic teams continue to collect evidence from the blast site. The government has also initiated an emergency hotline for families seeking information on those who were at the terminal during the time of the attack.
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