Egypt Unrest - Morsi Declares State Of Emergency In 3 Cities

Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi has declared a state of emergency in the cities of Port Said, Suez and Ismalia after days of deadly unrest.

A daily curfew from 21:00 to 06:00 will be imposed for 30 days from Monday, he said in a speech to the nation.

At least 33 people died over the weekend in Port Said, where a court judgment sparked rioting. Unhappiness with Mr Morsi's rule fuelled unrest elsewhere.

In the capital Cairo, anti-government protesters clashed with security forces near Tahrir Square for a fourth consecutive day.

The liberal opposition accuses Mr Morsi of being autocratic and driving through a new constitution that does not protect adequately freedom of expression or religion.

The government is also being blamed for a deepening economic crisis.

Mr Morsi said he might take further steps "for the sake of Egypt" as it was his "duty" as president.

He also invited political leaders to a "national dialogue" on Monday.

Egypt's main opposition coalition, the National Salvation Front, welcomed the invitation but blamed the unrest on Mr Morsi's own policies.