India has strongly condemned the recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, explicitly calling a strike on the Saudi Aramco headquarters in Dhahran “totally unacceptable.” New Delhi has reaffirmed its solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and called for an immediate cessation of all such assaults on civilian infrastructure.
Concerns for Indian Nationals Amid Attacks
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, highlighted India's deep concern for the safety and well-being of Indian nationals residing in Saudi Arabia. The ongoing series of Houthi attacks, which have also targeted airports, have led to significant flight disruptions and caused injuries to several individuals.
According to the MEA, an attack on October 10 resulted in 12 injuries, with one person tragically succumbing to their wounds. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh facilitated the last rites for the deceased in accordance with family wishes. Of the remaining 11 injured, three have been discharged, while eight continue to receive hospital care, including four in intensive care. Embassy officials are actively monitoring their condition and maintaining communication with their families.
The strikes have particularly impacted flights operated by Indian carriers to and from key Saudi cities such as Riyadh, Dammam, Medina, and Jeddah. The Indian Embassy has issued advisories and is providing essential information and assistance to affected travelers, including those stranded due to cancellations.
International Reactions and Regional Context
These condemnations follow a series of Houthi assaults on Saudi Arabia's vital oil infrastructure and airports, which have not only disrupted aviation operations but also fueled anxieties regarding global oil supplies.
Separately, US President Donald Trump issued a warning to the Houthis, accusing them of deliberately escalating attacks to influence global oil prices ahead of the upcoming US midterm elections. Trump suggested the group was acting at Iran's behest and vowed to remember their actions post-election.
In a related diplomatic development, India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval held discussions with his Iranian counterpart, Dr. Mohsen Rezaei, on October 12. Their agenda included bilateral relations, regional security, and international developments, with particular emphasis on the safety and security of Indian seafarers and tankers in the region.