Video- Coptic Christians, Egyptian Security Forces Clash in Cairo

Heavy clashes broke out after clashes spread in the area surrounding state TV building during a Coptic demonstration. 19 people at least were killed, 3 of which are army soldiers and the others protestors.

The clashes had started as the March headed towards the State TV building when unknown thugs started throwing rocks on the protestors as they proceeded.

Different accounts of what started the violence as the march arrived in front of the State TV building are being circulated but eyewitnesses have all confirmed that the army and security forces used heavy force to break up the protest, including live ammunition and tear gas.

Several hundreds were also injured during the clashes that spread to Tahrir square where security forces also used to disperse protestors and mourners.

Egyptian Prime Minister has called an emergency meeting with his cabinet to discuss ways of containing the situation.

Copts make up roughly 10 percent of the country’s 83 million people and they complain of state-sanctioned discrimination, including a law that requires presidential permission for church construction. A curfew was enforced from 2 am till 7 am in the area where the clashes took place.

A heavy air dawned on Egypt today with the deadliest clashes since the downfall of Mubarak taking place, bring back images to many Egyptians of the early days of the revolution. But what repercussions these events will have on the upcoming parliamentary elections and Egypt’s ongoing transitional period, yet have to be seen.