At least six explosions were reported on Thursday near the palace used by Yemen’s internationally recognized government in the port city of Aden. Witnesses indicated that the blasts were significant, with an official confirming to the Associated Press that at least two people were killed. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels, based in northern Yemen, quickly claimed responsibility for the attack.
Casualties and Damage
Government military sources in Yemen informed Agence-France Press (AFP) that the attack resulted in at least four fatalities and ten injuries. An AFP journalist observed smoke rising from the area, while residents reported hearing multiple explosions during the incident. This attack marks the first on the presidential complex since Yemen’s civil war reignited in July.
A government minister, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that Yemeni Prime Minister Shaya al-Zindani was present during the attack but was unharmed. The explosions caused panic among residents, prompting many to flee the vicinity.
Details of the Attack
According to reports from the Aden-based Saba news agency, the Houthis launched the attack using missiles and drones. A security official revealed that at least two explosions occurred on a hill near Al-Maashiq palace, with additional blasts near the security gate. An anonymous Yemeni government minister confirmed that a Houthi missile attack targeted a command center for the Saudi-led coalition, hitting it with three missiles, while two missiles struck the coalition forces' headquarters at the presidential complex.
