Trump Says U.S. May Join Saudi Strikes on Houthis After Riyadh Airport Attacks

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on October 10, 2026, during a press briefing that the United States "may" join Saudi Arabia's strikes against the Houthi militia group. This potential involvement was prompted by recent attacks on Saudi airports, which killed at least six people and led to a near-total shutdown of air traffic in and out of the capital, Riyadh.

The most recent attack targeted King Khalid International Airport (KKIA), the second busiest airport in Saudi Arabia, resulting in dozens of injuries. The Houthis, who claimed responsibility for earlier attacks, did not immediately claim responsibility for the latest strike. This series of attacks, which began shortly after Saudi-backed forces launched a major offensive against the Houthis on October 4, has been ongoing for several weeks.

The attacks, primarily targeting Saudi citizens, also involved individuals from several other countries. Saudi officials have vowed to punish the Houthis for the attacks, while the Houthis have warned international airlines and passengers to avoid airspace over Saudi Arabia and Saudi oil facilities. The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh issued a security alert, advising Americans to avoid the airport and its surrounding areas due to potential flight cancellations and travel disruptions.

The escalating conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis has been fueled by a series of threats and retaliatory actions in recent months, including the Houthis' capture of key ports and islands and their threat to impose a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia. The U.S. has refrained from getting involved in the conflict, despite pressure from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to take action against the Houthis.