The grounds of the American Embassy in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, have been attacked by a crowd of protesters angered by a US-made film offensively depicting Islam's Prophet Muhammad.

According to BBC, the police shot in the air in an attempt to hold back the crowds, but failed to prevent them gaining access to the compound and setting fire to vehicles. A number of people have been injured.

The security forces have then proceeded to use tear gas, water cannon and live fire, and have now regained control of the Sanaa compound, however, protests are continuing outside.

On Tuesday, an attack on the US consulate in Benghazi killed Ambassador Christopher Stevens, 3 other officers, and several Libyans. Stevens is believed to have died from smoke inhalation.

Earlier on Thursday, US officials said the probe is now focusing on finding out if the assault was a planned act by an Al Qaeda-inspired organization to mark the anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attack on the US, since it happened on the same date. The announcement came on the heels of reports that the attack was executed by 20 trained militants.

There have also been clashes in the Egyptian capital, Cairo, continuing in the early hours of Thursday morning.

President Mohammed Mursi has appealed for calm, saying Egyptians "reject any kind of assault or insult" against the Prophet Muhammad.

Security has been increased at US embassies and consulates around the world in response to the rising tensions.

US President Barack Obama has vowed to work with the Libyan authorities to bring those behind the Benghazi attack to justice.

The film, titled "The Innocence of Muslims" portrays Prophet Muhammad as a religious cheat and a womanizer.

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