Troops are being drafted into Cairo and other cities across Egypt ahead of protests expected this weekend.
Demonstrations have been taking place across the country since Tuesday by opponents of the Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi who are demanding his removal.
More are expected to take place following Friday prayers tomorrow. Sunday marks the year anniversary of Morsi coming to power.
In a speech yesterday, the president warned that the continuing unrest is “threatening to paralyse the country”.
Two people were killed and 170 injured in clashes in the northern city of Mansoura yesterday.
Troops have been deployed in areas of Cairo where pro-Morsi demonstrators are expected to gather.
Streets are lined with armoured trucks and soldiers have been positioned to protect the presidential palace and other public buildings in Cairo, where clashes are expected to take place.
Fuel shortages have caused huge traffic jams and long queues at petrol stations, creating more tensions in the city.
Earlier this week, the UK Foreign Office updated its advice to warn tourists about protests in Egypt.
Tourists are asked to exercise caution at potentially sensitive locations such as government buildings, police stations, security directorates, political party offices, military barracks, the vicinity of Tahrir Square, the presidential palace and the Mokkatam area in Cairo.
The FCO website adds: ” Do not attempt to cross roadblocks erected by demonstrators, or the security forces. Monitor travel advice updates and the local media for further information.”
