Egypt’s protesters block Tahrir Square

Demonstrators in Egypt of have blocked Cairo’s iconic Tahrir Square, just hours after it was opened, say Egyptian security forces. Reports have emerged that protesters closed the square by erecting iron blocks in front of the entrances and exits. In response, dozens of Egyptian troops them removed the blocks, in a bid to allow heavy traffic through. However, a security source speaking to Arabstoday denied allegations that troops broke up the protest by force, despite local reports. The source insisted that security forces were attacked by a number of street vendors while removing the blocks to aid traffic congestion. He also claimed that a number of police cars were also destroyed. Meanwhile, Ministry of Interior tried to strike a deal with protesters last week. The department offered the protesters protection from the police if the organisers agreed to limit the number of demonstrators allowed. The deal was swiftly rejected by organisers representing the demonstrations.