PM condemns attack on Israeli embassy

The Prime Minister David Cameron today strongly condemned the attack on the Israeli Embassy in Cairo and called for full protection of diplomatic property and personnel.

He was speaking after a night of violence during which a mob broke into the embassy after tearing down a cement barrier around the building.

In a statement, Mr Cameron said: "I strongly condemn the attack on the Israeli Embassy in Cairo.

"We have urged the Egyptian authorities to meet their responsibilities under the Vienna Convention to protect diplomatic property and personnel, including the Israeli Embassy in Cairo. They have reassured us that they take these very seriously.

"The Egyptian authorities have previously said that they will uphold Egypt's international agreements including its peace treaty with Israel.

"We welcome this and look to Egypt to honour this commitment. We urge both countries to work together to resolve current tensions and enhance regional stability."

At least three people died as trouble erupted in the city after the embassy attack, according to Egyptian officials.

Around 1,000 people were also reported to have been injured as civilians clashed with police and soldiers, although only 38 remain in hospital.

Troops fired shots into the air and unleashed tear gas into the crowds as protesters pelted them with rocks.

Groups have been gathered outside the embassy for days but violence flared last night as thousands of people descended on the area.

The deaths of five Egyptian policemen on the Israeli border last month has heightened tensions in the country.

Egypt's governing military council has declared a state of alert and is meeting today to discuss developments.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu branded the attack on his country's embassy a "blatant violation of international norms", according to an aide.

Around 80 Israeli embassy staff and their families, including the ambassador were flown out of Egypt overnight.

PA