Live Updates: Egypt Tense Amid Calls for Fresh Protests
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AFP/Getty Images(CAIRO) — Tensions remain high across Egypt as the government accuses supporters of ousted Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi of “terrorism,” and Islamists vow to continue protesting all week. Hundreds were killed last week after security forces cleared two sit-ins Wednesday, and clashes have continued since.
Egypt’s state news agency MENA reports 79 people were killed on Saturday.
In the capital, thousands of supporters of ousted Morsi hit the streets after Friday prayers to march towards Cairo’s Ramses Square. In a statement sent out to supporters Friday morning, the Muslim Brotherhood called on “the great Egyptian people to gather in all revolutionary squares on the Friday of Rage.”
The statement continued, “Afterwards, all marches will meet at the nearest intersection, and will all head to Ramses Square. Meanwhile, million-man marches will be held in all other Egyptian governorates.”
In preparation for the marches, Egyptian security forces positioned guards alongside Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) at Ramses Square.
Violent clashes erupted as the throngs of protesters arrived, live gunfire rang out and military helicopters circled overhead.
The mostly unarmed protesters were chanting anti-military slogans and “Execute Sissi,” referring to the army chief, Gen. Abdel Fattah El-Sissi, who took control when Morsi was removed from power.
Dramatic videos emerged of protesters fleeing the barrage of gunfire, and some flinging themselves off bridges. At least 80 people were killed Friday.
Follow live as the action unfolds.
The grand total is up to 952 dead since last Wednesday, the country’s single deadliest day in modern history.
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