This is the text of the first communique issued by the Egyptian military. The statement was issued prior to President Hisno Mubarak's speech Thursday, Feb. 10, in which he declined to step down. McClatchy Special Correspondent Miret El Naggar translated.
Based on the responsibility of the Armed Forces and commitment to the protectionof the people and the people’s interest and safety, and out of our keenness forthe safety of the nation and the citizens, and the possessions of the greatEgyptian people, and out of endorsement for the people’s rightful/legitimatedemands, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces held a meeting on ThursdayFebruary 10, 2011, to study the current situation and how it develops. Thecouncil has decided to continue meeting regularly to study the options andprocedures and measures to keep the safety of the nation and the ambitions ofthe great Egyptian people.