Obama discusses Egyptian situation with national security team

WASHINGTON (Xinhua) - US President Barack Obama on Saturday discussed the "very fluid" situation in Egypt with his national security team and expressed concern over the "continued political polarization" in the most populous Arab nation.

In a conference call with the National Security Council, the president, who was in the presidential retreat of Camp David in Maryland, "condemned the ongoing violence across Egypt and expressed concern over the continued political polarization," the White House said in a statement.

Protests continue in Egypt against the ouster of Mohamed Morsi, the first elected president in the country, by the military Wednesday. And the clashes Friday between the protesters and security forces in the capital of Cairo left at least three dead and several injured.

The military had put the head of the Supreme Constitutional Court in charge of the country for a transitional period and suspended the constitution backed by Morsi's supporters, a move dismissed by Morsi as "a complete military coup."

Obama issued a statement Wednesday expressing "deep concern" about the move, calling on the army to move "quickly and responsibly" to return "full authority" to an elected civilian government. He did not, however, characterize it as a coup.

In his meeting with his national security team, Obama reiterated that the United States does not take sides with any particular party in Egypt.

"In line with that position, the United States categorically rejects the false claims propagated by some in Egypt that we are working with specific political parties or movements to dictate how Egypt's transition should proceed," the White House statement said.

"We remain committed to the Egyptian people and their aspirations for democracy, economy opportunity and dignity," the statement said. "But the future path of Egypt can only be determined by the Egyptian people."

"During this transitional period, we call on all Egyptians to come together in an inclusive process that allows for the participation of all groups and political parties," the statement added, calling on all sides to refrain from violence.

Obama had ordered a review of some 1.55 billion dollars in US assistance to Egypt, which has been the second-largest recipient of American aid after Israel since 1979.

The State Department on Wednesday ordered the evacuation of " non-emergency" personnel and family members from US diplomatic missions in Egypt.