Houthi missile and drone strike hits Yemen's presidential palace in Aden, casualties reported

Attack on the presidential complex On 15 October 2026, Houthi forces launched a missile and drone attack aimed at the presidential palace in Aden, the interim capital used by Yemen's internationally recognised government. Witnesses described a series of explosions near the palace grounds, with smoke visible over the complex. The assault was reported to involve multiple missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, striking both the hilltop area of the Maashiq palace and the security gate surrounding the site.

Casualty figures vary Yemen's health minister announced that five people were killed and sixteen wounded in the attack. A separate official source initially gave a lower estimate of two dead and six injured, before the minister updated the numbers. The CNA World outlet reported at least four fatalities and ten injuries, indicating a discrepancy between the figures released by different agencies. All sources agree that the death toll was at least four and that a significant number of civilians were harmed.

Houthi claim and strategic context The Iran‑backed Houthi rebels, based in northern Yemen, quickly claimed responsibility for the strike, stating that the target was a military operations headquarters where the "Saudi enemy" was present. This aligns with the group's broader campaign of targeting Saudi‑linked facilities, including airports and oil infrastructure within the kingdom, as part of the ongoing Iran‑related war.

Impact on government and security Although the palace complex was hit, officials said that many senior government leaders remain in exile and that those residing in Aden were not directly affected by the blast. The explosions caused panic among local residents, prompting many to flee the immediate area. Security officials confirmed at least two explosions on the hill and two near the palace gate.

Regional repercussions The attack adds to the escalating confrontations between the Houthis and the Saudi‑led coalition supporting Yemen's recognised government. It has raised concerns for global oil markets, given Saudi Arabia's role as a top exporter, and has prompted warnings to airlines about potential use of Saudi airspace for further attacks. Aviation routes in the region have experienced disruptions as a precaution.

International response The incident has been covered by multiple international news agencies, highlighting the ongoing volatility in southern Yemen and the broader geopolitical stakes involving Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the coalition forces. No immediate diplomatic response was reported in the immediate aftermath of the strike.