Politics

Egypt's Interim President Says PM Can Grant Military the Right To Arrest Civilians

At least 72 killed in demonstrations over the weekend

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Egypt's interim president says he has given the prime minister the power to grant the military the right to arrest civilians after a weekend of violence between supporters of the country's deposed leader and security forces left at least 72 dead.

Government officials say the decision could be a prelude to a major crackdown on Mohammed Morsi's supporters or militants who have stepped up attacks against security forces in the Sinai Peninsula. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media.