India condemns strikes on civilian infrastructure as airlines suspend services to key Saudi cities and several injured Indian nationals remain hospitalized
Flight disruptions across Saudi Arabia following attacks on airports and other civilian infrastructure have affected Indian carriers, prompting India to intensify its efforts to safeguard the large Indian community in the kingdom.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on October 14 that flights operated by Indian airlines to and from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Medina had been disrupted. Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo and Akasa Air announced cancellations on affected routes until October 17, citing the evolving security situation.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India had strongly condemned the attacks and called for an immediate end to strikes against civilian infrastructure. New Delhi also expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and called for peace and stability in the region.
The attacks have raised concerns over the safety of Indian nationals, including residents, workers and religious pilgrims travelling between the two countries.
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According to the MEA, one Indian national was killed and 11 others were injured in the October 12 attack on Riyadh’s international airport
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As of October 14, three injured Indians had been discharged, while eight remained in hospital, including four receiving treatment in intensive care
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh is maintaining contact with members of the Indian community and providing updates and assistance to travellers affected by the disruptions. It has also issued safety advisories urging Indians to follow official instructions and remain alert to developments.
Saudi Arabia is home to more than four million Indians, making it one of the largest destinations for the Indian diaspora in West Asia. The disruption to air services has therefore affected not only tourists and pilgrims but also expatriate workers and families travelling between India and the kingdom.
The attacks have also extended beyond airports, with Saudi energy company Aramco’s headquarters reportedly targeted on October 13, adding to concerns about regional security.
Indian authorities continue to monitor the situation, while travellers have been advised to check directly with airlines for flight updates before proceeding to airports.
