The demonstrations staged by MB [Muslim Brotherhood] and independent MPs yesterday in front of the People's Assembly [Egypt's lower chamber of Parliament] were marked by intense negotiations among security officials and the MPs. The security forces said they would provide two microbuses to take the MPs to the presidential palace only if the young protesters ended their demonstration in front of the People's Assembly. This was done and some 20 MPs went to the presidential palace on two microbuses brought by security forces. MB MP Mohamed el-Baltagui ended the demonstration by talking to the two groups of protesters who had gathered there and had been prevented by security forces from reaching the Assembly's headquarters. After criticizing the Israeli invasion, he called on the young protesters to end their demonstration and complete their march at the Doctors' Syndicate, affirming that protests would continue across Egypt. MB youngsters had flocked to the People's Assembly at midday and prayed the noon prayer on the street while the MB MPs were taking part in the meeting of the joint committee to discuss the Israeli aggression on Gaza. At the end of the prayer, the youth chanted slogans in support of Hamas.
