President Hosni Mubarak has defended the role of Egypt’s security forces in suppressing anti-government protests which have rocked the country.
Mr Mubarak also dismissed his government and said a new cabinet would be announced on Saturday.
It was his first statement since the protests – in which at least 26 have died with hundreds injured – began.
Tens of thousands took part in protests in Cairo, Suez, Alexandria and other cities.
