Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi Makes Historic Power Grab

The president's new decree has protesters taking the streets in Egypt again

Shortly after Egyptian government officials brokered a peace agreement between Israel and Hamas, thousands are protesting in the country after President Mohamed Morsi issued a constitutional decree ruling that none of  his decisions can be overturned until a new constitution is drafted and that the Islamist-dominated assembly writing the constitution cannot be taken from power.

The US State Department has issued a statement saying that Morsi's declaration raises concerns for Egyptians and the international community. France also condemned the order.

[ALSO READ: Israel and Hamas Announce Cease Fire]

Morsi's power grab has angered the masses in Egypt who have been particularly responsive to political corruption for the past few years.

"Morsi today usurped all state powers and appointed himself Egypt's new pharaoh," tweeted Nobel Peace laureate Mohamed ElBaradei. "A major blow to the revolution that could have dire consequences."

[SUBSCRIBE TO LOOP 21 RSS FEED]