Concern from William Hague and David Cameron as violence in Egypt escalates

Following the deaths of hundreds and the wounding of thousands of protesters across Egypt the Middle East Monitor has been following responses by British officials closely. As well as the scores of Egyptians killed, foreign journalists are now being counted amongst the dead including a Sky News cameraman. Prime Minister David Cameron, tweeted “saddened to hear the death of Mick Dean, covering events in Egypt. My thoughts are with his family and Sky news team.”

Alistair Burt, the Middle East Minister tweeted an initial statement:

“#Egypt: Deeply concerned at events continuing today in #Cairo leading to deaths and injury. Restraint and dialogue more urgent than ever.”

The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office went on to release the following statement from British foreign secretary, William Hague:

“I am deeply concerned at the escalating violence and unrest in Egypt, and regret the loss of life on all sides. The UK has been closely involved in intensive diplomatic efforts directed at reaching a peaceful resolution to the standoff. I am disappointed that compromise has not been possible. I condemn the use of force in clearing protests and call on the security forces to act with restraint. Leaders on all sides must work to reduce the risk of further violence. Only then will it be possible to take vital steps towards dialogue and reconciliation.”

The Labour party shadow foreign secretary, Douglas Alexander also responded to the situation in Egypt:

“I am horrified by the reports of killings and escalating violence emerging from Egypt. The international community should not be silent and must urge the Egyptian regime to exercise restraint during these dangerously turbulent times.”

“The continued political stalemate can only be resolved through dialogue and an immediate return to negotiations over a sustainable political settlement for Egypt. Further bloodshed risks escalating the situation further and will make much needed reconciliation even harder to achieve.”