Federal Government Condemns Houthi Attack On Saudi Arabia Airport, Calls It ‘Dangerous Escalation’

The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the reported Houthi attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, describing the incident as a “dangerous escalation” that threatens civilian safety and violates the country’s sovereignty.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, where Nigeria expressed concern over the attack and its implications for peace and security in the Middle East.

According to Adeniyi, the incident undermines ongoing efforts to promote regional stability and heightens tensions in an already volatile region.

“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 read.

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

“The Federal Government of Nigeria expresses its solidarity with the Government and people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and extends its deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack. Nigeria also wishes those injured a speedy and full recovery,” Adeniyi stated.

Nigeria further emphasised the need to respect Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, stressing that international law requires the protection of civilian lives and critical infrastructure.

The statement added that the government commended Saudi Arabia’s response to the incident and its efforts to protect lives and maintain security.

“Nigeria commends the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its prompt emergency response following the incident in King Khalid International Airport, and acknowledges its sustained efforts to safeguard the Kingdom’s security and protect the lives and well-being of its people,” the statement added.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting diplomatic initiatives and constructive dialogue aimed at promoting international peace and security.

It also called for efforts to de-escalate tensions, strengthen regional stability, protect civilians and safeguard critical infrastructure across the Middle East.

LEADERSHIP reports that 12 people were killed and hundreds injured in the attack, describing it as the deadliest strike on Saudi soil in more than a decade.

The incident occurred amid an escalation in Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia following the collapse, in July, of a truce in the group’s long-running conflict with Yemen’s Riyadh-backed government.

The renewed violence has heightened fears of a wider regional conflict, with United States President Donald Trump signalling that Washington could join military action against the Houthi fighters.

The attack also prompted the Saudi-led coalition to vow a decisive response against the Houthis on Sunday, raising concerns over the possibility of further military escalation in the region.