New Delhi, May 27 (IANS) The ministry of external affairs Friday advised Indian nationals to leave Yemen as early as possible following breaking out of clashes between government and rebel forces.

 
 "Keeping in view the evolving situation and the increase in violent incidents in Yemen, all Indian nationals living in the country are advised to exit the country through whatever commercial means available," said an advisory issued by the ministry.
 
 The Yemeni capital Sana'a witnessed clashes between government security forces and tribal militia, which has left according to some estimates 70 people dead since Monday.
 
 Indians not able to leave immediately have also been advised "not to venture out except under absolutely unavoidable circumstances".
 
 "The Embassy of India and our ambassador in Yemen will continue to function in Sana’a and can be contacted for any assistance by Indian nationals till such time they are able to exit the country,” said the advisory.
 
 Other countries, like the US and Britain, have already asked their nationals to leave the country.
 
 The clashes followed the collapse Sunday of a transition deal that Yemen's President Ali Abdullah Saleh refused to sign. The deal would have given him immunity from prosecution after his voluntary resignation.
 
 Saleh has been president since 1978. A re-election in 2006 saw him winning the elections yet again. However, amid widespread protests, Saleh has said he would not run for president again in 2013.