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Car Bombing Targets Shi'ites in Yemen


At least one tribesman is dead after suicide car bomber hit convoy of Shi'ite Houthi rebel supporters on their way to funeral of Houthi rebel spiritual leader

News reports out of Yemen say at least one tribesman is dead after a suicide car bomber hit a convoy of Shi'ite Houthi rebel supporters on their way to the funeral of a Houthi rebel spiritual leader.

Friday's attack occurred in the northern province of Saada. The total number of casualties is not yet clear.

The blast comes just two days after another car bombing in Yemen targeted a procession of Shi'ites traveling to a religious celebration, killing at least 17 people.

Wednesday's attack took place in the northern Jawf province during the al-Ghadeer celebration, one of the most sacred holidays of the year to Yemeni Shi'ites. Authorities say at least 15 worshippers were wounded.

Officials say many of the worshippers were sympathizers of the Houthi rebels, who have been fighting the government since 2004. Analysts say the attack may unravel a fragile truce between government forces and the rebels in place since February.

Some authorities suspect Wednesday's attack was carried out by al-Qaida, which has been stepping up terrorist activity from Yemen.

Violence also has plagued southern Yemen, where authorities are struggling with two different battles against separatists and a resurgent al-Qaida.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and Reuters.

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