CAIRO: The U.S. Embassy in Cairo today warned American citizens of potential demonstrations in Egypt this weekend as a result of tensions over Palestinian statehood at the United Nations conference in New York. “This emergency message is being issued to inform U.S. citizens that the upcoming discussions at the United Nations General Assembly this week regarding Palestinian issues may lead to reactions in Egypt and potential for demonstrations to occur,” said the warning, posted on the Embassy's website. “Whether or not these gatherings are confrontational, it is likely that the demonstrations and the police/military presence will cause significant traffic disruptions,” it added. The warning advised Americans residing in Egypt to monitor local and international news reports, avoid areas with heavy police presence and to exercise caution around “large public gatherings” or demonstrations. “Even demonstrations or events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence,” the statement continued. The Embassy also recommended that citizens in Egypt review personal security plans and register travel plans with the U.S. State Department website.
