Yemen's state-run television building caught fire after a three-day mortar attack by Shi'ite rebels who are protesting against the government, according to residents and a TV employee.

After weeks of protests and clashes, the conflict intensified on Thursday when the Shi'ite Houthi rebels clashed with the army on the outskirts of Sanaa. The fighting expanded mainly between the Houthis and tribesmen allied with the al-Ahmar clan. Prominent figures from the mainly Sunni Muslim clan hold senior positions in the armed forces and government.