US Embassy in Cairo to remain closed five more days

"The Department of State has instructed certain US Embassies and Consulates to close for days not previously scheduled as holidays in the period Monday, August 4 through Saturday, August 10," it said. "Accordingly, the Embassy Cairo will be closed Monday, August 4 through Saturday, August 10," it said. The embassy said US citizens requiring emergency assistance should contact the Embassy switchboard, which is manned 24/7. "As a matter of general practice, US citizens should avoid areas where large gatherings may occur. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations."