In Yemen, almost 40 people have been killed in intense fighting between rebels and loyalists in the outskirts of Taez. The clashes have eliminated hope of the warring parties abiding by a truce announced by US Secretary of State John Kerry that was to have taken effect on Thursday.<br/><br/>Loyalist military sources said, 24 rebels and 14 pro-government forces were killed in the last 24 hours, while the rebels reported dozens of casualties in shelling of a local market. Two civilians were also killed and 16 wounded when rebels fired rockets into a residential area of Taez.<br/><br/>Pro-government forces are pressing on with a four-day old offensive to recapture the presidential residence and police headquarters in the southwestern city, while the Shiite Huthi rebels have brought in reinforcements. The fighting has continued despite Kerry's announcement of a new ceasefire.