President Donald Trump is considering renewed strikes on Iran after an attack on Riyadh's main airport killed 12 people. The Saudi-led coalition blames the Houthis, while a tanker was struck in the Strait of Hormuz and US forces disabled a vessel in the Gulf of Oman.
President Donald Trump is considering renewed strikes on Iran after a deadly attack on Saudi Arabia's main airport raised fears of a wider regional conflict. Saudi Arabia's Civil Aviation Authority said Saturday's attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh killed 12 people and injured 309, forcing a temporary suspension of airport operations.
Washington weighs a response
The Saudi-led coalition blamed Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis and pledged a firm military response. The group has not claimed responsibility for the latest attack.
Trump said Washington could join Saudi strikes against the Houthis and reconsider military action against Iran. He had previously ruled out attacks on Tehran before the November 3 US midterm elections. He also said he planned to speak with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Incidents at sea and across the Gulf
Meanwhile, a tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations agency. The crew was reported safe. Separately, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed a supertanker suffered a major explosion after striking a mine on an unauthorised route through the waterway.
US Central Command said its forces disabled a Panama-flagged commercial vessel in the Gulf of Oman after its crew allegedly ignored warnings and attempted to breach Washington's naval blockade against Iran. CENTCOM also reported redirecting 135 commercial vessels and disabling four since the blockade resumed on July 14.
Saudi-led coalition forces reported intercepting a ballistic missile targeting Al-Kharj, near Prince Sultan Air Base, which hosts Saudi and American military personnel. A separate projectile reportedly landed near King Fahd International Airport in Dammam.
Flights suspended, congress goes ahead
Several countries are warning citizens against using Riyadh airport, and Indian carrier Akasa Air suspended Saudi flights until October 13. Organisers nevertheless confirmed that the World Petroleum Congress in Riyadh would proceed as scheduled.
Source: Investing.com
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