Aden, Yemen: Two members of Prime Minister Shaya Al-Zindani’s security detail were killed after several missiles struck the presidential Al-Maashiq Palace in Aden, Yemen’s internationally recognized government said Thursday.

The government confirmed that Prime Minister Al-Zindani and other cabinet members remained safe following the attack. Officials shared the information in a statement issued by the Ministry of Information.

“Prime Minister Dr. Shaya Al-Zindani and members of the government are safe following a missile attack by the Iranian-backed Houthi militia on Al-Maashiq Palace in the interim capital, Aden,” the statement said.

Houthis Claim Saudi Military Target Was Hit

The Iran-aligned Houthi movement claimed responsibility for the strike. It said the attack targeted what it described as a Saudi military operations center inside the palace compound.

In a statement, the group said the strike formed part of its declared policy of targeting Saudi military deployments wherever they operate. The Houthis also described Saudi military presence as a legitimate target for their forces.

However, the Yemeni government did not immediately provide details confirming the alleged presence of a Saudi military operations center at the compound.

Authorities also did not disclose the type of missiles used or the full extent of the damage.

Aden Remains Seat of Yemen’s Recognized Government

Aden serves as the de facto capital and seat of Yemen’s internationally recognized government. The government lost control of the national capital, Sanaa, after the Houthis seized the city in 2014.

Since then, Yemen has experienced years of conflict involving the Houthi movement and forces supporting the internationally recognized government. A Saudi-led military coalition has supported the government in its fight against the rebels.

Thursday’s reported strike on Al-Maashiq Palace highlights continuing security concerns in Aden, where senior government officials operate.

Further details about the attack, the damage to the palace complex and any official response were not immediately available.