Egypt closes off access to famed pyramids, other sites, as protests enter fifth day

As anti-government protests in Egypt enter a fifth day, tanks and military personnel are protecting key official buildings in Cairo, including state television, and the Foreign Ministry, as well as major tourist and archaeological sites like the Egyptian Museum, which houses priceless antiquities.

In addition, Egypt’s international symbol, the magnificent pyramids on the outskirts of Cairo, have been closed off by soldiers.

Meanwhile, thousands of protesters have returned to the streets of central Cairo, enraged by President Hosni Mubarak’s refusal to step down. Mubarak
has dissolved his cabinet, but that hasn’t appeased his opponents. Egyptian state media said a new ruling committee will be appointed later today.

According to media reports, protesters chanted The army and the people are one, and some demonstrators even embraced soldiers and handed them food.

At least ninety have died thus far in the unrest.

Egyptian authorities have imposed a curfew in the cities of Cairo, Alexandria and Suez from 4pm until 8am.
Opposition leader Mohammed ElBaradei told French radio Mubarak must quit.

President Mubarak did not understand the message of the Egyptian people, ElBaradei said. His speech was totally disappointing. The protests will continue with even more intensity until the Mubarak regime falls. I will go back into the streets today [Saturday] with my colleagues to contribute to bringing change ... and to tell President Mubarak that he must go.”