Trump weighs U.S. role in Saudi campaign against Houthis after Riyadh airport attack
President Donald Trump said the United States may join Saudi strikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The comments came after another attack on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport, which was evacuated and had operations suspended. The recent assaults on Saudi airports, military sites, and oil infrastructure have unsettled markets and the region.
A missile hit a Riyadh airport complex used for domestic terminals 3 and 4 on Saturday, wounding several people and prompting evacuation, according to regional officials. Saudi aviation authorities halted operations, blocked entrances, dimmed lights, and said damage and casualties were being assessed. Flights were rerouted, and several governments advised citizens to stay away.
The attack followed a Saudi-led coalition offensive against Houthi forces in Yemen. The Houthis have targeted Saudi airports, military sites, and oil facilities. Saudi Arabia reportedly lacks enough interceptors and has sought air-defense help from France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt. Washington has provided intelligence, targeting, and planning support.
The disruption may affect travelers and airline schedules across the region, while repeated strikes on Saudi oil and transport infrastructure could unsettle energy markets and shipping costs. Residents near targeted sites may face safety fears and emergency disruptions. If U.S. involvement expands, it could deepen regional tensions, though diplomatic efforts might still reduce escalation.