Saudi Arabia witnessed two separate attacks on Abha and King Khalid International Airports on October 6 and 7, 2026. These attacks are considered a serious threat to the safety and security of passengers and aviation operations in the country. The General Authority of Civil Aviation of Saudi Arabia (GACA) announced that emergency response teams and relevant authorities immediately responded to these incidents.
Details of the Attacks
At Abha International Airport, the attack resulted in the deaths of two women, a Moroccan citizen, and an Algerian citizen. Additionally, 28 people, including Saudi citizens, a Bangladeshi resident, and a Filipino resident, suffered various injuries, ranging from minor to serious. At King Khalid Airport, a Sudanese citizen lost their life, and eight others, including five Saudi citizens, two Egyptian residents, and one Pakistani resident, were injured.
Post-Attack Actions
All injured individuals received appropriate medical services and were transferred to hospitals. Furthermore, these two attacks caused damage to properties at these airports. GACA is working with relevant authorities to assess the damages, ensure the safety of facilities, and take necessary measures to maintain passenger safety and continue aviation operations in the country's civil aviation system.
These attacks not only impacted airport security but also highlighted serious challenges in Saudi Arabia's national security. Security officials are working to investigate the dimensions of these attacks and prevent the recurrence of such incidents. Saudi Arabia, as a key country in the Gulf region, is always exposed to various security threats, and these attacks underscore the need to strengthen security measures.
Attention to airport security and critical facilities is one of the main responsibilities of Saudi officials. Given its geographical position and key role in the international aviation industry, the country must continuously work on enhancing its security infrastructure.
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