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Israeli apology insufficient in view of gravity of offense -- Egypt

CAIRO, Aug 21 (KUNA) -- The Crisis Management Committee headed by Prime Minister Essam Sharaf discussed and deemed "insufficient" Tel Aviv's apology and statement of "regret" after the killing of several Egyptian soldiers within Egyptian territory by Israeli fire, a committee statement said on Sunday.
The statement said the crisis team continued meetings which started on Friday to follow up the latest developments related to the death of one officer and four soldiers and injury of others within Egyptian territory.
"Though of positive face value, the Israeli statement does not befit the gravity of the offense and is unlikely to stem the anger of the Egyptian public," it said.
Stressing the committee represents the Egyptian people's will and stance, the statement remarked "Egyptian blood is not cheap" and that while Egypt was keen on peace, "Tel Aviv has to honor its obligations if it really wishes peace." The committee welcomed the Israeli decision to launch a joint investigation into the incident as "an initial step" in the right direction. It also demanded a clear time-table and deadline for completion of the investigation.
The committee blasted statements by some Israeli and other western officials over the situation in Egyptian Sinai and criticizing its handling of security in the peninsula, stressing Sinai security was purely and internal affair. "Neither Israel, nor any other party, has right to meddle in this regard." The Egyptian government also reiterated its condemnation of Israeli attacks on Gaza Strip which further inflame the Arab and Egyptian masses and does not help peace efforts.
"The Crisis Management Committee would remain in session until the joint investigations are completed and all the facts are ascertained," the statement said.
The deadly Israeli shooting which killed the Egyptian soldiers seemed to have come during retaliation to attacks which left eight Israelis dead on Thursday.
The incident led to protests with hunderds of Egyptians taking part. One protester climbed and brought down the Israeli flag from the Israeli Embassy building to the cheers and chants of those gathered in anger over the deaths of the security officers.(end) zab.wsa KUNA 211054 Aug 11NNNN