"We can tell our efforts are starting to have an impact because extremists are publicly venting their frustration and asking supporters not to believe everything they read on the internet," Clinton said.

Ban Ki Moon described the attacks as "very alarming and surprising."

Militants linked to Al Qaeda launched a dawn attack on a Yemeni army post on Monday, leaving at least 23 people dead, according to army officials.

The five women have been sentenced to 45 days in prison and fined 10,000 rupees ($110) each.