UAE Notes ‘Satisfaction’ in Downfall of Islamist Foes in Egypt

The United Arab Emirates, one of the Arab world’s most outspoken critics of Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood, is expressing support for the Egyptian military for ousting the Islamist-led government of Mohammed Morsi.

A statement Thursday by the official news agency WAM noted “satisfaction” in the removal of Egypt’s president after days of massive street protests in Cairo and elsewhere.

The UAE claims Islamist groups backed by the Muslim Brotherhood have sought to topple its Western-backed ruling system. Earlier this week, 69 people were convicted on coup plotting charges. Another 30 suspects, including Egyptians, await trial for alleged links to Brotherhood networks.

In neighboring Saudi Arabia, King Abdullah sent a congratulations message to the head of the Egypt’s Constitutional Court.

Among wealthy Gulf Arab states, only Qatar has close Brotherhood ties.

Source: The Associated Press