Hyderabad Techie Killed, Sons Maimed in Riyadh Airport Attack
A devastating Houthi missile strike at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has claimed the life of a Hyderabad-based IT professional and left his family fighting for their lives.
Mohammed Yousuf Ali, a 46-year-old engineer from India, was at the airport with his family on Saturday, October 10, 2026, awaiting a flight to Medina for an Umrah pilgrimage. The missile strike caused debris to collapse on the family in the airport lounge, turning a spiritual journey into a horrific tragedy.
A Family Devastated by Violence
The attack resulted in the immediate death of Ali. His wife, Sameera, his 11-year-old daughter, Maryam, and his aunt, Atiya Sultana, all sustained serious head injuries. The family's sons were also caught in the carnage, suffering life-altering trauma.
Aman Ali, 18, underwent knee surgery and remains in the intensive care unit. His brother, Wasi Ali, 16, sustained severe leg injuries that resulted in the loss of three toes. Following the tragedy, the family arranged for Ali’s funeral to be held in Riyadh on October 12, 2026.
Escalating Regional Tensions
The strike on the airport was part of a larger, bloody incident that left at least 13 people dead and 309 injured. The casualties included citizens from various nations, including Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, the United States, Jordan, Palestine, Syria, Sudan, and Egypt.
The security situation in the region has since spiralled. On October 14, 2026, the Houthi group claimed responsibility for further ballistic missile and drone attacks targeting Aramco facilities in Dhahran and a refinery in Riyadh. In a chilling escalation, Houthi spokesperson Yahya Sarea warned that Saudi airports are now considered legitimate targets in response to military operations in Yemen.
International Outcry
The international community has reacted with widespread condemnation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that attacks on civilian infrastructure are a violation of international law. Similarly, the Government of India issued a formal statement describing the repeated attacks on the airport as completely unacceptable, affirming its solidarity with Saudi Arabia.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh is currently monitoring the condition of the injured family members and providing necessary support during this period of mourning.