RAHIM YAR KHAN: In the early hours of Saturday, an Indian airstrike struck Sheikh Zayed International Airport (SZIA) in Punjab’s Rahim Yar Khan, causing severe damage to its infrastructure. The air-to-surface missile destroyed the Royal Lounge, frequently used by the UAE president and his family.
Deputy Commissioner Khuram Javed confirmed that India launched both a missile and a drone targeting the airport. He stated that the attack created a 10-foot-wide crater at the airport’s apron area and caused significant structural destruction. Authorities immediately informed the UAE embassy about the damage.
Although the airport has not handled commercial flights since 2023, it occasionally hosts the Abu Dhabi royal family. Locals reported hearing loud blasts around 4:15am, which woke many residents in panic.
Named after the late UAE president Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the airport symbolizes the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and the UAE. It also plays a strategic role in Pakistan’s aviation network due to its diplomatic ties.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, the airport provided crucial logistics and relief support during the 1973 and 2010 floods, transporting food, supplies, and victims.
The Indian airstrike on this diplomatically significant site has raised concerns about regional tensions. Security officials continue to assess the extent of the damage and potential international response.
