Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens: Cairo (Egypt), Large Demonstrations Expected on November 27, 2012; Embassy Closed for Visa & American Citizen Services

The Embassy wishes to inform U.S. citizens that multiple groups, representing positions both in support of President Morsi and those opposing the Muslim Brotherhood and any increase to presidential power, are planning to hold separate gatherings throughout the country on Tuesday, November 27. Large crowds are anticipated on both sides and with rising tension over the issue of the power of the presidency, the possibility of violence exists, particularly should opposing sides come into contact with one another. The Muslim Brotherhood is planning a rally in support of the president at Renaissance Square in Giza while opposition groups are calling for a demonstration in Tahrir Square. Media sources are reporting that groups may start assembling in the early afternoon, with the possibility that marches could have a severe impact on traffic flow in the downtown area.

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