Concerns Arise Over U.S. Relations with New Egypt
Feb. 12 ,2011— -- While crowds from around the globe have been celebrating the end to Hosni Mubarak's 30-year rule as leader of Egypt, questions have arisen about Egypt's uncertain future, its relationship to the U.S. and the political stability of the Middle East.
A new dawn in Cairo brought a small army of volunteers into Tahrir Square this morning to clean the trash and debris, a simple symbol of the people taking ownership of their country as a new chapter opened in Egypt's 7000 year history.
"In an instant ... all the years of anger, frustration and disappointment disappear into a moment of joy," said Mohammed Ghabn, who at 30-years-old has never lived in an Egypt not controlled by Mubarak.
Speaking early yesterday, President Obama praised the protesters and Mubarak's response to their calls for change.
"The people of Egypt have spoken. Their voices have been heard and Egypt will never be the same," the president said. "By stepping down, President Mubarak responded to the Egyptian people's hunger for change, but this is not the end of Egypt's transition. It's the beginning."
Obama called on Egypt's new leadership to lift the controversial emergency law that has been in place almost continuously since 1967, which gives the government far-reaching powers at the expense of judicial review and civil liberties. He also urged for a peaceful and constructive transition to free and fair elections.
America and the New Egypt
While the transition of power has primarily been a cause of celebration across the globe, concerns have arisen about just how Egypt's relationship with the U.S will be redefined.
The major issue: U.S. National security and whether Egypt's role in counter-terrorism has been compromised..
