The Egyptian Army on Friday moved in and surrounded the Tahrir Square where anti-President Mubarak protestors gathered for a massive rally. Until today, the Army played a passive role. From the morning hours, a huge wave of protesters was seen moving towards the Square. The rally today aims at forcing the president of leaving the country.
Defense Ministry source said that Field Marshal Mohammed Hussein Tantawi, Egypt's Defense Minister, visited Al-Tahrir Square in central Cairo on Friday. The source said Tantawi and a number of senior officers of the armed forces toured the Square.
Tantawi was seen speaking with some of the protesters, saying to them, " O people, the man told you that he will not run again," referring to Mubarak's speech Tuesday.
Tantawi also urged the Muslim Brotherhood leader to accept dialogue with the government, saying: "Tell your guide to sit with them. "
Backers of the president were not seen in the area.
