Al-Azhar issues a statement after the Houthi attacks on King Khalid Airport in Riyadh
Quick Look
Al-Azhar Al-Sharif condemned the strikes that targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, describing them as criminal and a provocation to Muslim feelings, after the Houthi attack that resulted in 13 deaths, hundreds of injuries, and the temporary suspension of operations at the airport.
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Why It Matters
The attack was carried out by the Houthis on Saturday at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, resulting in 13 deaths and hundreds of injuries, and temporarily suspending operations at the airport.
Al-Azhar Al-Sharif condemned, on Monday, the strikes that targeted King Khalid Airport in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, describing the attacks that resulted in deaths and hundreds of injuries as “criminal” and representing a “provocation to the feelings of Muslims.”
The largest Sunni Islamic institution in the world said in a statement: “Al-Azhar Al-Sharif condemns in the strongest terms the sinful attack that targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, and the resulting victims and injuries among innocent civilians and the guests of God among the pilgrims.”
The statement stressed that "targeting civilian facilities and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques represents a provocation to the feelings of Muslims, an unacceptable transgression of all human values and international norms, and a direct violation of the security and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."
Al-Azhar reiterated its “complete rejection of these repeated criminal attacks, which have affected the lives of innocent people and civilians, and undermined the security and stability of the Kingdom, warning of the consequences of this sinful persistence, and affirming that preserving the security of the region requires an immediate cessation of these attacks, and full respect for the sovereignty of states and the sanctity of their lands.”
On Saturday, the Houthi attack resulted in 13 deaths and hundreds of injuries at King Khalid International Airport, following which the authority announced the temporary suspension of operations at the airport.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Diplomatic and international efforts will continue to stop Houthi attacks on civilian facilities in Saudi Arabia
Likely · Within weeks
Saudi Arabia may increase its security measures at airports and vital facilities
Very likely · Within days
Open Questions
- What are the precise motives behind the Houthis targeting the airport?
- Will attacks on civilian facilities continue in Saudi Arabia?
- What measures will the Kingdom take to enhance the security of its airports?
