YEMENI police opened fire on Shi’ite protesters marching toward the prime minister’s office in the capital Sanaa today.

At least four people died and 10 others were wounded when shooting erupted during a rally by supporters of Houthi rebels fighting Sunni tribesmen in the north.

As the demonstrators marched to the government headquarters the police first fired teargas to try and disperse the crowds, then started using live rounds.

Medical officials and witnesses said four people died and at least 10 had been injured by gunshots, while several others were hurt in a stampede as protesters tried to escape the shooting.

Tensions have been escalating in Sanaa, where the Houthis have staged weeks-long demonstrations demanding that the government resigns and reinstates fuel subsidies.

Negotiations have failed and the Houthis have kept up their rallies.

One person died in clashes with police on Sunday as the Houthi protesters marched near Sanaa's airport road.