Indonesia Enhances Emergency Plans for Citizens in Saudi Arabia Following Airport Attacks

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Following recent missile and drone attacks in Saudi Arabia, Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) is intensifying efforts to protect its citizens residing in the region. Heni Hamidah, the Director General of Protection of Indonesian Citizens (PWNI) at Kemlu, confirmed that both the Indonesian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah are actively monitoring the security situation and maintaining communication with the Indonesian community.

Reports from the Indonesian diplomatic missions initially indicated no direct casualties among Indonesian nationals due to the early attacks. However, Kemlu later confirmed two Indonesian nationals with permanent residency were lightly injured in the King Khalid International Airport attack on October 11 and were treated and released the same day. The situation remains dynamic, with ongoing assessments of potential impacts on flight operations.

“Heni Hamidah confirmed that contingency plans are in place and will be adjusted according to the evolving circumstances on the ground.”Heni Hamidah, Director General of Protection of Indonesian Citizens, Kemlu

On October 6-8, flight operations at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah saw over 93% of scheduled flights operating normally, according to the Consulate General's monitoring. The Ministry has advised Indonesian citizens to remain vigilant, avoid areas identified as potential hotspots, and follow local safety directives. A security advisory was issued on October 9 urging Indonesians to stay in safe locations and adhere to these directives.

“As of early reports, there were no indications of Indonesian citizens being directly affected by the developments in security situations in Saudi Arabia, though later updates confirmed two Indonesians were lightly injured.”Heni Hamidah, Director General of Protection of Indonesian Citizens, Kemlu

Despite the escalating tensions, Heni noted that the pilgrimage for Umrah is still ongoing without any advisories to halt activities. The Ministry is coordinating closely with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to ensure that measures can be adapted as the situation evolves.

Recent reports indicate multiple attacks by Houthi forces on Saudi airports on different dates. An attack on October 6-7 targeted Abha and King Khalid airports, resulting in three deaths and 36 injuries. A separate attack on October 10 at King Khalid airport resulted in 12 deaths and 309 injuries. The Saudi Civil Aviation Authority activated a national early warning system in Riyadh on October 12 at 21:00 local time following detection of potential aerial threats. Heni emphasized the importance of preparedness and said that contingency plans are in place and will be adjusted according to the evolving circumstances on the ground.