Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi declared a state of emergency in Port Said, Suez and Ismailia, the three Suez Canal cities hit by rioting that resulted in close to 40 dead.
Speaking on state television, Morsi said the emergency measures, which include night curfews, would stay in place from 9 PM to 6 AM, for 30 days.
“I have said I am against any emergency measures but I have also said that if I must stop bloodshed and protect the people then I will act,” he said.
Morsi warned he would take further steps to confront threats to Egypt’s security if if the deadly violence that has swept over Egypt does not end.
“If I must I will do much more for the sake of Egypt. This is my duty and I will not hesitate,” he said.
President Morsi acted after a second day of rioting rocked Port Said on Sunday. The violence left another six people dead and more than 460 injured.