As they expressed concern over the Egyptian army interference in the political affairs of the country, Western countries called for elections and swift return to democracy in Egypt.
As they expressed concern over the Egyptian army interference in the political affairs of the country, Western countries called for elections and swift return to democracy in Egypt.
Egypt Army chief Gen. Abdel F
attah Sisi announced late Wednesday the ouster of embattled President Mohammad Mursi, suspension of the constitution and the appointment of the Supreme Constitutional Court as a caretaker leader.
US President Barack Obama urged a quick return to elected civilian government.
"We believe that ultimately the future of Egypt can only be determined by the Egyptian people," Obama said in a statement after emergency talks with top aides.
"Nevertheless, we are deeply concerned by the decision of the Egyptian Armed Forces to remove President Mursi and suspend the Egyptian constitution."
He said had ordered a review of the legal implications for US aid to Egypt in the wake of the military's toppling of the elected leader.
UN leader Ban Ki-moon said he understood Egyptians had "deep frustrations" but expressed concern over the army's intervention.
Ban believed that "military interference in the affairs of any state is of concern," spokesman deputy UN spokesman Eduardo del Buey said.
Meanwhile, EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, condemning the bloodshed, called for a swift return to democracy.
"I urge all sides to rapidly return to the democratic process, including the holding of free and fair presidential and parliamentary elections and the approval of a constitution," she said.
She hoped the transitional administration announced by the new regime would be fully inclusive and that human rights and the rule of law would be respected, she added.
"I strongly condemn all violent acts... and urge the security forces to do everything in their power to protect the lives and well-being of Egyptian citizens," said Ashton.
For its part, Britain expressed concern at the army's intervention.
"The situation is clearly dangerous and we call on all sides to show restraint and avoid violence," said Foreign Secretary William Hague.
"The United Kingdom does not support military intervention as a way to resolve disputes in a democratic system," Hague said in a statement.
He called for early elections in which all parties could take part and for a civilian-led government.
A Canadian foreign ministry spokesman called for calm, dialogue between the rival parties and a return to democracy.
