The blasts killed at least 22 people and injured dozens more, new government spokesman Rajeh Badi told CNN. All cabinet members are safe, according to Yemeni Prime Minister Maeen Abdulmalek.
It is unclear whether the explosions were caused by missiles fired at the airport. Badi told CNN that the investigations have not yet been concluded.
Information Minister Muammar Al Eryani accused the Houthi rebels backed by Iran of being behind the blast, but the group has not claimed responsibility.
Prior to the attack, hundreds of people had gathered at the airport on Wednesday for the arrival of the government, which was invested in Saudi Arabia last week.
Videos of the Saudi Arabian-owned Al Arabiya Channel showed the timing of the attack: a strong boom was followed by gunfire. Smoke was seen coming out of the terminal building after the camera sank.
The attack created a large hole in the ground and caused severe damage to an airport lounge, according to images from Saudi state broadcaster Al-Ekhbraiya.
“The cowardly terrorist act that took place at Aden Airport is part of the ongoing war against the Yemeni state and our great people, and will only increase our insistence on fulfilling our duties until the coup is over, the state is restored and stability “. said the Yemeni prime minister.
UN envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths condemned the attack on Twitter. “I wish the Council of Ministers strength to face the difficult tasks they face. This unacceptable act of violence is a tragic reminder of the importance of urgently returning Yemen to the path to peace,” he added.
A U.S. State Department official said “they are aware of reports of attacks in Aden and are saddened by reports of casualties and injuries.”
“The United States supports the Yemeni government and is on the side of the Yemeni people,” the official said.
CNN’s Jennifer Hansler contributed to this report.