Yemeni regime forces attacked a group of anti-government protesters Wednesday, injuring at least four, officials say. The demonstrators were gathered peacefully in the southern city of Ibb for a protest march to deman the dismantling of President Ali Abdullah Saleh's government, Iran's PressTV reported. One of those injured was in critical condition.
Saleh's forces had also opened fire on protesters in Ra'da, a town in al-Baida province. No injuries had been reported from the Ra'da demonstration.
Hundreds of protesters have been killed by the Yemeni forces since the demonstrations began early this year.
Meanwhile, revolutionary youth groups have set up a transitional council that will put pressure on Saleh to give up power, govern the country during a transitional period and handle the prosecution of Saleh, his son and officials in his administration.
The Youth Revolution Council will have 17 members, who would include former Yemeni President Ali Nasser Mohammed, former Defense Minister General Abdullah Ali Aleiwa and leaders of several other opposition groups, including those in exile.
Saleh and five other officials are currently in Saudi Arabia, allegedly receiving treatment for injures sustained during a rocket attack on the Yemeni presidential palace on June 3.
Protesters say this will continue to rally through the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan until their demands are met.
"We will continue our sit-in through Ramadan, not just during Ramadan, until all of Saleh's regime and their elements are removed. We have now removed the root but we are left with the stem, the corrupt elements who control the oil and petroleum facilities, gas and water," an anti-government protester said.
