Egyptian protesters burn Iranian flag Tensions mounted between Cairo and Tehran as Salafist demonstrators burned the Iranian flag outside the embassy in Cairo on Thursday in objection to renewed Iranian tourism in Egypt. Mujtaba Amany, the Iranian ambassador to Cairo, condemned the protest, emphasising that it was not indicative of the opinion of Egyptians in general. He added that it was unacceptable for Islamists to burn the Iranian flag, which is emblazoned with the word "Allah."
Ahmed Hussein, a member of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs, asserted that the demonstrations highlighted political differences between Salafists and the ruling Muslim Brotherhood, which has been working towards restoring congenial relations with Tehran.
The Egyptian diplomat said that the Muslim Brotherhood would endeavour to attenuate Salafist actions. He underlined that Iranian support could prove critical as Egypt strives to overcome its current crisis.
Dawlat Hassan, a professor of Political Science, also backed strengthening relations between Egypt and Iran. She stressed, however, that the Iranian government should not attempt to impose its Shiite doctrine or revolutionary model on Egypt.
Hassan condemned the burning of the Iranian flag, urging demonstrators to remain peaceful and avoid insulting other countries.