Special to WorldTribune.com

CAIRO — Egypt’s military, amid the threat of massive unrest, has
warned of intervention to stop the opposition against President Mohammed
Morsi.

Egyptian Defense Minister Abdul Fatah Sisi said the military would not
tolerate threats against Morsi on the first anniversary of his election on
June 30. Sisi warned the opposition that the military would assume
responsibility for internal security.

“The will of the Egyptian nation is what governs us and we protect it with honor, and we are completely responsible for protecting it,” Sisi said. “We cannot permit a violation of the will of the people.”

In an address on June 23, Sisi, appointed by Morsi in August 2012, became the first senior official to raise the prospect of military support for the Islamist president in his struggle with the opposition. The defense
minister issued the warning after he met Morsi to discuss security measures for the planned protest campaign.

In a statement, Morsi’ office said the president ordered Sisi to implement unspecified security measures to protect “all vital and strategic structures in the country.” The statement said the Defense Ministry would
coordinate with the Interior Ministry, responsible for police and anti-riot forces.

“The armed forces have the obligation to intervene to stop Egypt from
plunging into a dark tunnel of conflict and infighting,” Sisi said.

Clashes have already erupted between the opposition and the Brotherhood.
On early June 23, at least two Brotherhood supporters were killed in battles
in Mahalla north of Cairo.

“We are impartial and neutral,” Sisi said. “Our loyalty is to Egypt and
its great people.”

So far, the military was used to maintain order during riots in
northeastern cities in 2012. Officials said the military could be required
amid a manpower shortage within police and security forces.

“We have taken a huge leap in just eight months,” Sisi said.

  Abdul Fatah Sisi, Military backs Morsi on first anniversary of his election, Mohammed Morsi, Muslim Brotherhood