What started as a peaceful demonstration in downtown Cairo took a violent turn later Sunday when Coptic Christians protesting last week’s attack on one of their churches clashed with military forces and other civilians. By day’s end 25 people had been killed. The outburst shows strains in the transition process of the recently revolutionized nation and is drawing concern from the international community — including, of course, the White House. –KA

BBC:

Many mourners expressed anger at the army, which they blame for the deaths.

The protesters say they were attacked by thugs before the security forces fired on them and drove military vehicles into the crowds.

The ruling military council has ordered a swift inquiry into the violence, in which 25 people died.

The council, which was handed the power to govern by President Hosni Mubarak before he was ousted in a popular revolt, is in temporary charge of the country while elections are organised.

US President Barack Obama called for restraint “so that Egyptians can move forward together to forge a strong and united Egypt”.

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#cairo egypt#egypt#hosni mubarak#islam#religion#tahrir square#white house