Blast hits Egypt consulate in Libya

Blast hits Egypt consulate in Libya
Sun Aug 18, 2013 09:30:26

An explosion has rocked the Egyptian consulate in the Libyan city of Benghazi, blowing out its windows and those of adjacent buildings.

"Unknown assailants in a vehicle threw an explosive device at the Egyptian consulate in Benghazi without causing casualties," said security spokesman Abdallah al-Zayedi.

The attack came as dozens of people protested outside the consulate against a deadly police crackdown Wednesday on supporters of Egypt's ousted President Mohamed Morsi.

The blast caused part of the outer wall of the building to collapse. Several cars were also damaged in the blast.

Residents in the area spoke of a "state of terror" after the loud explosion.

Police cordoned off the area and were collecting evidence.

"The security services have a description of the vehicle and are pursuing it," said Zayedi.

The Libyan government said on Saturday it has adopted a policy of neutrality regarding the situation in neighboring Egypt.

"Libya believes that what is happening in Egypt... is strictly an internal Egyptian affair in which the Libyan government will not interfere," the government said.

The statement said Tripoli supported moves to ensure consensus building, safety and security in Egypt, while expressing "deep regret and pain for lost lives and bloodshed".

Egypt has been in political crisis since July 3, when army chief Abdel Fattah al-Sisi removed Morsi from office, suspended the constitution and dissolved the parliament.

NTJ/SHI

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