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FCO: Demonstrations in Cairo, Alexandria and Suez

22nd November 2011 The UK Foreign Office have released the following update:

There are ongoing violent confrontations between security forces and demonstrators in Tahrir Square and the Downtown area of Cairo.

FCO plaque in King Charles Street. Crown copyright.

The Foreign Office strongly advise that British nationals stay away from Tahrir Square, including the Egyptian Museum and the Downtown area of Cairo including Maspero and the Interior Ministry. British nationals should avoid all crowds and demonstrations. The situation is changing rapidly and we recommend that you follow events on local and international news and seek advice from tour operators.

For more information, see our travel advice for Egypt.

Since the British Embassy is located in Garden City, which is near Tahrir and Downtown Cairo, if you need to visit the Embassy please call beforehand to check on security. The number to call is 02 2791 6000.

Tahrir Square is still occupied by protestors and is not passable to traffic. In Alexandria the streets around the Northern Military HQ are closed. British nationals should stay away from these areas, avoid crowds and demonstrations, follow events on local and international news and seek advice from their tour operators.

There have been reports of sexual assaults on women during some demonstrations in Tahrir Square. There have also been a number of arrests during demonstrations, including British and other foreign nationals. You should carry ID at all times.