Obama concerned over Egypt deaths

Sara Abou Bakr
2 Min Read
The Countering Iran in the Western Hemisphere Act, passed by lawmakers earlier this year, calls for the State Department to develop a strategy within 180 days to “address Iran’s growing presence and activity” in the region. (AFP PHOTO)
Barak Obama. AFP

AFP- US President Barack Obama expressed “deep concern” Thursday over the recent deadly political protests in Egypt, in a call to his counterpart Mohamed Morsi, the White House said.

Obama also told Morsi that it was “essential for Egyptian leaders across the political spectrum to put aside their differences and come together to agree on a path that will move Egypt forward,” the White House said in a statement.

Seven people died in clashes between Morsi’s supporters and his mainly secular opponents on Wednesday in Egypt’s worst political crisis since Morsi took office in June.

Another 644 people were injured, medical officials said.

“President Obama called President Morsi today to express his deep concern about the deaths and injuries of protesters in Egypt,” said the statement issued by White House spokesman Jay Carney.

Obama “emphasized that all political leaders in Egypt should make clear to their supporters that violence is unacceptable,” it said.

The US president welcomed Morsi’s call for dialogue beginning Saturday in his offices, but said it “should occur without preconditions” and urged opposition leaders to take part.

Obama “reiterated the United States’ continued support for the Egyptian people and their transition to a democracy that respects the rights of all Egyptians,” the statement said.

Share This Article
Politics editor at Daily News Egypt Twitter: @sara_ab5
Leave a comment