Yemen’s Houthi movement, also known as Ansarallah, has claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile attack on Al-Maashiq Presidential Palace in Aden, escalating tensions around the country’s internationally recognized government. The strike took place on October 15, 2026, with reports indicating that five missiles hit the palace complex in the southern port city, which serves as an interim seat of government. Two security guards were reportedly killed in the attack, while senior government officials, including the prime minister, were reported safe. Footage from the aftermath showed thick plumes of smoke rising above buildings near the coastal palace grounds, highlighting the severity of the incident. The attack has raised fresh questions about the security of government institutions and whether the strike could trigger further military action in an already volatile conflict.

Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed that the operation targeted a Saudi military operations headquarters and weapons depots allegedly located within the palace complex. The group presented the strike as part of its campaign against Saudi military involvement in Yemen, although its specific claims about the intended targets have not been independently verified. The attack comes against the backdrop of a conflict that has divided Yemen since the Houthis seized the capital, Sanaa, in 2014, prompting a Saudi-led military intervention in support of the internationally recognized government in 2015. The latest strike could further complicate efforts to stabilize the country and increase the risk of renewed confrontation between the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces. With two security personnel reported dead and the government complex directly targeted, attention is now focused on the authorities’ response and whether additional attacks or retaliatory operations will follow.