Saudi Arabia has reopened its King Khalid International Airport for international flights, marking a significant development more than two weeks after deadly strikes by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels forced the facility to suspend operations. The decision to resume flights comes as the kingdom continues to face security threats from Houthi attacks, which have included missiles and drones targeting the Saudi capital.
On Sunday, Saudi military spokesman Maj. Gen. Turki al-Malki reported that the country’s air defenses successfully intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile and a drone launched by the Houthis. This air defense success highlights the ongoing tensions in the region, particularly following Houthi strikes earlier this month that resulted in the tragic deaths of 17 individuals and left over 330 wounded.
Just last week, the airport had opened its terminals for limited domestic flights, but now it is prepared to handle both domestic and international travelers, signaling a cautious return to normalcy for air travel in the kingdom.
Meanwhile, in the occupied West Bank, Israel has been conducting a large-scale military operation in response to a recent attack that left two Israeli soldiers dead and three others injured in Hebron. This military operation has resulted in the displacement of hundreds of Palestinians and imposed significant restrictions on their movements. The timing of these actions coincides with the upcoming elections in Israel, adding to the already heightened tensions in the region.
The Israeli military announced that, in light of the situation, most Palestinian workers with permits will be barred from entering Israeli communities for work on Sunday and Monday. Additionally, several crossings will remain closed until after the elections scheduled for Tuesday, further complicating the lives of many Palestinians.
As the election approaches, tens of thousands of Israelis living abroad are expected to return home to cast their votes. Israeli law requires citizens to vote in person, with exceptions for diplomats and official emissaries. This year, an estimated 7.3 million individuals are registered to vote, and the election is anticipated to be closely contested, with many seeking to express their opinions on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security policies during a period of intense conflict.
In a related development, Iran’s foreign minister has dismissed recent threats of war, asserting that Iran’s policies will remain unchanged regardless of external pressures. Abbas Araghchi emphasized Iran’s readiness to collaborate with neighboring Arab nations and warned against any renewed military actions by the U.S. against Iran.
This report will continue to be updated as new developments emerge, providing readers with timely and relevant information about the evolving situations in both Saudi Arabia and Israel.
