LOC10:54
07:54 GMT
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