WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, condemned widespread violence in Egypt and called for a suspension of U.S. assistance to the Egyptian military on Tuesday.
“The deplorable violence that has scarred Egypt over the last month is truly disturbing. In the interest of supporting all Egyptians and the future stability of the Egyptian state, it is essential that the military, the Muslim Brotherhood, and all parties to this conflict bring an end to this tragic cycle of violence.
“Egypt has been a strong and important ally to the United States for decades, working closely and productively with our military in the fight against terrorism and extremism, and serving as a vital economic partner in an important part of the world. While we continue to value our Egyptian partners and hope for a long and sustained relationship, I applaud the administration’s decision to seriously review our assistance to Egypt. The United States should suspend its aid to Egypt until the situation stabilizes and the military, with its stewardship of the current government, demonstrates its commitment to restoring civilian rule and respecting human rights.
“It is my sincere hope that Egypt will soon return to the path of reform and democracy that its people so passionately demanded. When it does, the United States will be ready to support the Egyptian people in their ongoing pursuit of a representative government, stability, and lasting peace.”
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