Security officials say the attack happened today at a mosque during Eid al-Adha prayers.
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The United Nations says almost 4,900 people, including more than 2,200 civilians, have been killed in Yemen in fighting on the ground and air strikes since 26 March. Such coordinated suicide attacks involving more than one assailant have become commonplace in Yemen and elsewhere, with a follow-up blast meant to target would-be rescuers or those attempting to flee the initial explosion.
Reuters reported two suicide bombers blew themselves up at the mosque run by Houthis, causing many casualties.
Saudi-owned al-Arabiya television said on Thursday at least 40 Houthis were killed while trying to sneak into a Saudi village across the border with Yemen.
In May this year, an attack in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province was the first to be claimed by the Saudi branch of the Islamic State (IS) militants, which was formally established in November 2014.
The eyewitnesses said dozens of worshipers were also injured in the attack in which one bomb exploded in front of the Al-Bilayli mosque in the city’s downtown, and another hit the back of the building. Despite this progress, the rebels have maintained control of Sanaa.
No terror group immediately claimed responsibly for the bombings. The Associated Press could not independently verify the authenticity of the claim. ISIS is a Sunni group who is fundamentally opposed to Shiites.
“As the crowd rushed to leave the prayer room, a suicide bomber tried to force his way into the mosque”, said Khaled.
The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief reporters.
Blood stains and debris were seen on the floor of the mosque after the blast, while Huthi rebels inspected the damage.
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Houthi fighters sealed off the area and shouted at onlookers to stay away.
