Nigeria Condemns Houthi Attack On Saudi Airport, Warns Of Rising Regional Tensions

Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting

The Federal Government has strongly condemned a Houthi militia attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, warning that the incident endangers civilian lives and could trigger further escalation of tensions across the Middle East.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the attack as a “dangerous escalation,” noting that it violated Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and undermined ongoing efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region.

The ministry’s spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, calling on all parties to uphold international law, exercise restraint, and avoid actions that could heighten hostilities and broaden the scope of the conflict.

“Nigeria reiterates its call on all parties to respect international law, exercise utmost restraint, and refrain from any further action that could escalate tensions, endanger civilian lives, damage civilian infrastructure or further undermine regional peace and security,” the statement said.

The Federal Government also expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and extended condolences to families of those killed in the attack, while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

Nigeria further stressed the need to respect Saudi Arabia’s territorial integrity and protect civilian lives and critical infrastructure, including facilities essential to public safety.

The government commended Saudi authorities for their emergency response at the airport and their efforts to protect lives and maintain security across the kingdom.

It also reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for diplomatic initiatives and constructive dialogue to prevent further violence, protect civilians and restore stability in the Middle East.

According to AFP and quoted by Truth Live News Media, the attack killed 12 people and injured hundreds, making it the deadliest strike on Saudi soil in more than a decade.

The report further stated that the Saudi-led coalition had vowed a decisive response against Yemen’s Houthi fighters on Sunday, fuelling fears of renewed military action and further escalation of the conflict.

The latest attack occurred amid a renewed wave of Houthi strikes against Saudi Arabia, following the collapse of a truce in July in the group’s prolonged conflict with Yemen’s Saudi-backed government.

The resurgence of hostilities has heightened fears of a wider regional conflict, particularly after United States President Donald Trump indicated that Washington could participate in military operations against the Houthis.