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Egyptian protestors clash with Mubarak supporters

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Egyptian anti-government protests turned violent yesterday after nine days of demonstrations against the leadership of President Hosni Mubarak. Reports said that at least three people were killed and hundreds wounded as supporters of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak clashed with anti-government protesters. Clashes took place at the heart of the demonstrations in Tahrir Square in Cairo and included the firing of guns, the use of petrol bombs, make shift weapons and the throwing of rocks. Protesters remained at the square through the night, despite a curfew, and waves of clashes took place sporadically. According to reports, gatherings of pro-Mubarak supporters took a harsher stance against journalists and foreigners. Two Associated Press correspondents and several other journalists were roughed-up during such gatherings. Haaretz notes that four Israeli journalists were arrested yesterday morning in Cairo, but were released later after the Foreign Ministry intervened.

In related developments, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said yesterday that a democratic Egypt will not pose a threat to the peace treaty with Israel. “An Egypt that will adopt these reforms will be a source of hope for the world. As much as the foundations for democracy are strong, the foundations for peace are stronger,” Netanyahu said. Netanyahu also warned that Iran is aiming to turn Egypt into a Gaza style leadership and added that Israel will support groups in Egypt that advance freedom and peace.