Egyptian army fires tear gas at Cairo protest over transfer of islands

Egyptian security forces fired tear gas at protesters yesterday in an attempt to disperse a demonstration in Cairo triggered by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s decision to transfer two islands to Saudi Arabia.

In one of the clearest signs that Mr Sisi no longer enjoys unquestioning support, thousands of people called for the fall of the government, chanting a slogan from the 2011 Arab Spring uprising.

Security forces detained about 50 protesters, according to two security officials. Police surrounded crowds at the press syndicate, site of the biggest demonstration.

Mr Sisi’s government prompted an outcry in Egyptian newspapers and on social media last week when it announced a maritime demarcation accord that put the uninhabited Red Sea islands of Tiran and Sanafir in Saudi waters.

Officials say the islands belong to Saudi Arabia and were only under Egyptian control because Riyadh had asked Cairo in 1950 to protect them. – (Reuters)