Rival Groups Clashed in Tahrir

Worst Violence Since Morsi Became President in June: More calm returned to Tahrir after the Ultras (soccer fans) chased Muslim Brotherhood members from the square; and the Brotherhood requested that they not return. No security forces were present throughout the day, although if around they usually make matters worse. President Muhammad Morsi's supporters, mainly his powerful Muslim Brotherhood movement, had called their rally to denounce this week's acquittals of Hosni Mubarak-era officials.

Polarized Egypt: His opponents, a coalition of liberal and secular leaning groups, had previously called their own rally termed "Accountability Friday" to denounce Islamist control over a body drafting the new constitution and Morsi's performance in office. Hundreds were injured during clashes between these rival groups. Vehicles and tires were burned. Conflict began in the early afternoon, when some protesters began chanting against the Muslim Brotherhood and Morsi. They were attacked with stones in response and a stage belonging to Hamdeen Sabbahi's Popular Current was destroyed.

A number of people were shot with pellets by unknown assailants and Molotov cocktails; and rocks were being thrown on side streets. Safety: I'm perfectly safe. Although I live adjacent to the downtown area, I know about the events only from newspapers and television. A message had been sent by the U.S. Embassy and also forwarded by the Fulbright office alerting me of possible demonstrations at Tahrir.