SANAA, Yemen — Yemen’s information minister says Shiite Houthi rebels have seized the country’s state news agency and television station, calling it “a step toward a coup.”

Information Minister Nadia Sakkaf made the comment Monday, amid ongoing battles between the Houthis and government forces.

The violence began with clashes near the country’s presidential palace. They come after the Houthis seized the capital and other parts of the country in September.