U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed that an American citizen was killed in an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Rubio strongly condemned the attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement, saying that violence against innocent civilians must stop immediately.
Rubio Confirms American Fatality
In a public statement, Rubio said the United States strongly condemned recent attacks by the Houthis against Saudi Arabia, including the October 10 strike on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
He said the attacks had taken numerous innocent lives, including that of an American citizen. Rubio described the incidents as reprehensible and said they demonstrated a blatant disregard for civilian life.
He also reaffirmed Washington’s support for Saudi Arabia and its people, extending condolences to the victims and their families.
Airport Attack Kills 12 and Injures 309
According to Saudi aviation authorities, the October 10 attack killed at least 12 people and injured 309 others.
The fatalities included four Saudi nationals, two Bangladeshi nationals, and one citizen each from the United States, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Palestine and Sudan.
Authorities said some of the injured were in critical condition and were receiving treatment in hospitals. The attack also caused damage to airport property, prompting a temporary suspension of operations while officials assessed the situation.
The incident marked the third attack on the airport within a week, raising fresh concerns about security at one of Saudi Arabia’s key aviation hubs and disrupting air travel.
Washington Condemns Attacks as Regional Tensions Rise
The Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen blamed the Houthis for the latest attack and said it would respond in accordance with international humanitarian law.
The Houthis and Saudi Arabia have been involved in a prolonged conflict, and the recent escalation in military activity has further heightened security concerns across the region.

U.S. President Donald Trump previously said Washington was considering whether to join Saudi-led military operations against the Houthis. Rubio’s statement reinforced the administration’s condemnation of the attacks and its emphasis on protecting civilian lives.
Aviation Security and Possible U.S. Response Under Scrutiny
Following the attack, several foreign diplomatic missions issued security advisories urging their citizens to avoid Riyadh airport and nearby areas. Some airlines also adjusted or cancelled flights, creating uncertainty for passengers.
The death of an American citizen is likely to intensify attention on security coordination between Washington and Riyadh, as well as the possibility of further U.S. action.
Analysts warn that any expansion of military operations could increase risks across Saudi Arabia, Yemen and neighbouring countries. The situation remains fluid, with governments and airlines monitoring developments and assessing the potential impact on regional security and civilian travel.

微信扫一扫打赏
支付宝扫一扫打赏