Saudi Arabia's top Islamic scholar has condemned the anti-government demonstrations taking place in Egypt, Tunisia, and across the Arab world. He called them a plot by the enemies of Islam to spread instability, Saudi newspapers reported on Saturday. Saudi daily Asharq al-Awsat quoted Grand Mufti Sheikh Abul-Aziz Al al-Sheikh as saying, “This chaos comes from enemies of Islam and those who follow them.” He added that demonstrations lead to bloodshed and looting. Following a month of demonstrations in Tunisia which led to the ousting of 23-year-president Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali, Egyptians have taken to the streets in record numbers for the past twelve days. They are calling for 82-year-old president Hosni Mubarak to step down after thirty years as head of the country. Saudi Arabia has expressed concerns that the unrest could lead to instability in Egypt, Saudi's main Arab ally. Saudi state media reported on January 29 that Saudi King Abdullah had called Mubarak to express his support. BM
