Obama to face reporters' questions on Egypt crisis

[February 04, 2011]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama will take questions from reporters Friday on the continuing violence in Egypt during what may be a pivotal day in the crisis, as anti-government demonstrators aim to escalate their street protests.

Obama and members of his administration are edging closer to blaming the government of authoritarian President Hosni Mubarak (HAHS'-nee moo-BAH'-rahk) for the violent clashes in Cairo. They have not called for him to resign immediately as the protesters want, but have made clear that they're not satisfied with Mubarak's announcement that he won't seek re-election in September after 30 years in power. Obama was to address the matter during an appearance with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. The administration is reportedly discussing a proposal with Egyptian officials for Mubarak to step down immediately. [Associated Press; By ERICA WERNER] Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.