Mohamed Morsi Hours Away from Deadline for Egyptian Military Coup

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Mohamed Morsi Hours Away from Deadline for Egyptian Military Coup

Egypt’s Interior Minister on Wednesday issued a decision to transfer the head of the Giza Security Department, following bloody clashes that took place in the area, which left 18 people killed and 619 wounded. Hussien al-Kadi, an assistant to the minister of interior, was appointed in the vacant position, according to the official page of the Interior Ministry. The clashes erupted in the early hours of Wednesday between supporters of President Mohamed Morsi, who were staging protests near Cairo University, and unknown assailants who opened fire at them.

Clashes have also occurred in Imbaba and another Giza district where 21 people were injured.

Death toll in Cairo University clashes rises to 18 – MOH

At least 18 people were killed and 619 were injured in the violent clashes that erupted in the early hours of Wednesday near Cairo University, announced the health ministry.

The clashes broke out between unknown assailants and supporters of President Mohamed Morsi, who were staging protests outside the university, following a televised speech by the Islamist president where he said he would not step down.

EU urges dialogue to resolve Egypt crisis

The only solution to the present deadlock in Egypt can only be political and on the basis of a substantial and inclusive dialogue, said the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs, Catherine Ashton.

“I am following the situation in Egypt very closely and with deep concern,” Ashton said in an official statement.

The EU representative urged all sides to show restraint and respect the principle of peaceful protest and non-violence, adding that confrontation cannot be a solution.

“I reiterate the EU’s steadfast commitment to stand by the Egyptian people in their endeavour toward democratic transition, and offer the EU’s support to assist all political forces in finding a peaceful solution.”

She also welcomed “the peaceful manner of demonstrations thus far,” but added that the cases of sexual abuse of female protesters were deeply troubling.

Anti Mohamed Morsi Tahrir protesters close Mogamma for second time

Some protesters have shut down Tahrir’s Mogamma for the second time since the anti-regime mass demonstrations that took place on June 30 that call for the ouster of Islamist President Mohamed Morsi.

The protesters formed human chains outside Egypt’s largest government building and hung a huge banner saying, “Closed in the name of the people until departure,” the state news agency reported.

Meanwhile, dozens of protesters continued their sit-in at the Square, carrying Egyptian flags and chanting against the Muslim Brotherhood.

Cairo University clashes under control – Interior Minister

The Egyptian authorities have managed to control the violent clashes that erupted in the early hours of Wednesday near Cairo University, Interior Minister Mohamed Ibrahim said.

The clashes erupted between supporters and opponents of President Mohamed Morsi following a speech made by him, killing 16 people and injuring about 200.

“The security forces are currently trying to persuade the Islamist protesters to break their sit-in and leave the area surrounding Cairo University so that clashes would not be renewed,” the Interior Minister said as reported by the state news agency.

He added, “Investigations are ongoing for identifying the rioters and capturing them immediately.”

Heavy security presence in Tahrir on Wednesday

Egypt’s army and police deployed troops in the areas surrounding Tahrir Square on Wednesday morning to secure it from any possible attacks.

Heavy security presence was observed in all roads leading to the square, reported the Middle East News Agency.

The speakers of the only podium set up in the square have asked the protesters to stop shooting fireworks, so that the noise would not be mistaken for a firearms attack, which would cause a state of panic.

 

This content is from :Aswat Masriya

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