'Renewed clashes' in north Yemen

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Reports from northern Yemen say there have been further clashes between security forces and Shia Muslim rebels. The reports say rebels loyal to Abdul-Malik al-Houthi have been besieging an army unit in the Marran mountains in Saada province.

Al-Ayyam newspaper said at least 25 soldiers had been killed since Monday. There was no word on rebel casualties.

The fighting has resumed six months after the government and the rebels agreed a ceasefire.

Hundreds of people were killed in fighting between the two sides in the months before the truce.

The rebels argue that Yemen's government is corrupt, too close to the West, and discriminates against their community.

Mr Houthi has reportedly warned any attempt to launch a new campaign against his forces would have "devastating military, economic and social consequences across Yemen".

The government in Sanaa says the rebels are seeking to overthrow it and impose Shia religious law.