Gibbs: U.S. Won't Take Sides in Egypt

The White House could probably use some help in trying to walk this tightrope: While White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has an “obligation” to avoid violence against protestors, he also stressed that Mubarak is a “close and important partner,” and said, “This isn’t a choice between the government and the people of Egypt This is not about taking sides.” He also said protestors are obligated to avoid violence, while noting that President Obama has urged Mubarak to adopt liberal reforms.