Netanyahu on Egypt unrest: Aim is to maintain stability

In first official comments on anti-gov't protests in Egypt, PM stresses importance of preserving peace, cites conversations with Obama, Clinton.

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Netanyahu in cabinet meeting 311 (photo credit: AP)
Netanyahu in cabinet meeting 311
(photo credit: AP)
In his first official comments on the situation in Egypt, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu said Sunday that Israel is "anxiously monitoring" the anti-government protests.
"Our efforts are designed to continue and maintain stability and security in our region," the prime minister said during the weekly cabinet meeting.
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On Saturday "I spoke with US President Barack Obama and US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton.  I also held consultations with Defense Minister Ehud Barak, Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman and with Israeli intelligence officials," Netanyahu said.
Click here for full Jpost coverage of unrest in Egypt
Click here for full Jpost coverage of unrest in Egypt
"I remind you that the peace between Israel and Egypt has endured for over three decades and our goal is to ensure that these relations continue," the prime minister explained.
Netanyahu advised ministers not to express their personal opinions on the tensions because of the sensitivity of the issue. "Of course, at this time, we must show maximum responsibility, restraint and sagacity and, to this end, I have instructed my fellow ministers to refrain from commenting on this issue.  Naturally, we are also holding consultations in the appropriate government forums," he said.