Yemen’s acting head has sparked new speculation that President Saleh will not soon be returning from Saudi Arabia. After he was wounded in a rocket attack on his palace, Saleh flew to Riyadh for treatment, triggering cries of victory from demonstrators demanding his ouster. But after three attempts at concluding an exit agreement brokered by the Gulf States, Saleh let it be rumored that he was returning to resume control. On Wednesday, Vice President Hadi told CNN that Saleh’s injuries were so severe that doctors have no idea when he may be allowed to return. Meanwhile, Saleh sent a message through is foreign minister on Wednesday, calling for renewed talks with the opposition regarding the Gulf proposals. Fighting continued between government troops and Islamists said to be linked to Al-Qa’ida. 26 soldiers and 17 Islamists were reported to have been killed in clashes in the southern city of Zinjibar.