Yemeni security forces and opposition loyalists have clashed in the capital, Sana'a.

Witnesses said Saturday that the clashes took place overnight. They say security forces fired at anti-government protesters who have been camped out in a square in the capital.

The incidents took place a day after thousands of Yemenis renewed calls for President Ali Abdullah Saleh's resignation.

The president remains in Saudi Arabia, where he has been recovering from injuries sustained in a June attack on his presidential compound. Earlier this week, he authorized a deputy to talk with the opposition in an effort to put an end to the crisis that has gone on for months.

Also, in April, the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council proposed a plan designed to end Yemen's anti-government turmoil. Mr. Saleh agreed to the proposal three times, but each time backed out before the deal could be signed.