Missile Strike Hits Residential Area in Al Kharj
A projectile strike hit a residential area in Al Kharj, located south of Riyadh, triggering concerns about casualties among foreign workers living in the area. The incident occurred amid rising tensions in the Middle East, with several countries experiencing drone and missile attacks linked to the ongoing regional conflict.
Initial reports from local authorities suggested that two foreign nationals had been killed in the strike, including one Indian and one Bangladeshi citizen. The projectile reportedly struck a residential compound where several expatriate workers lived, leading to injuries and damage to the building. Authorities said multiple residents were wounded in the incident.
However, subsequent clarification from the Indian government brought relief to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia.
Indian Embassy Clarifies No Indian Casualty
The Embassy of India, Riyadh issued a statement confirming that no Indian citizen died in the strike. The embassy said earlier reports mentioning the death of an Indian national were inaccurate.
In a message posted on social media, the embassy said it was “a matter of relief that there has been no Indian fatality in the unfortunate incident.” The mission added that it had been in contact with Saudi authorities to verify details and ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the affected area.
The clarification came after confusion over the identities of those killed in the projectile strike.
One Indian National Injured
While confirming there were no deaths among Indian citizens, the embassy reported that one Indian national sustained injuries during the attack. The injured person was immediately taken to a government hospital in Al Kharj and is currently receiving treatment.
According to officials, the individual is in stable condition and receiving appropriate medical care. The embassy has assured that it will continue to monitor the situation and provide assistance if needed.
Embassy Officials Visit the Injured Worker
Officials from the embassy also visited the injured Indian national to assess his condition. Community Welfare Counsellor Y Sabir travelled to Al Kharj and met the injured worker at the hospital.
The visit was part of the embassy’s efforts to ensure the welfare of Indian citizens living in the region. Officials said they remain in close contact with Saudi authorities and medical teams regarding the incident.
Rising Regional Tensions
The strike occurred during heightened tensions in the Middle East, where missile and drone attacks have increased due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and its regional adversaries. Several Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, have reported interceptions of drones and missiles in recent weeks.
Saudi officials said the projectile that struck Al Kharj fell on a residential building housing workers, highlighting the risks civilians face in areas affected by regional conflict.
Safety Advisory for Indian Nationals
The Indian Embassy has urged members of the Indian community in Saudi Arabia to remain calm and follow updates from official sources. Authorities are continuing investigations into the incident and assessing the damage caused by the strike.
India has one of the largest expatriate communities in Saudi Arabia, with millions of Indians living and working across the country. The embassy regularly coordinates with Saudi authorities to ensure their safety during emergencies.
