U.S. told Egypt it must rescue Israeli embassy workers or suffer 'consequences,' sources say

[ensho]

http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/u-s-told-egypt-it-must-rescue-israeli-embassy-workers-or-suffer-consequences-sources-say-1.383675


Officials involved in attempt to resolve mob attack on Israeli embassy in Cairo say U.S. Secretary of Defense Panetta managed to speak with head of Egypt's ruling military only after 2 hours of repeated calling.
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"There's no time to waste," Panetta reportedly told Tantawi in the 1 A.M. call, warning of a tragic outcome that "would have very severe consequences."

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a bully threat?

[CJvR]

1. Hardly.

It is the duty of every nation to protect the diplomatic mission of another nation, failing to do so is about the worst diplomatic screwup it is possible to make.

[LeftishBrit]

2. How is that a bully threat?

Not protecting embassy workers is a serious neglect, whatever the country; and is likely to have severe consequences, both for human lives and welfare, and for diplomatic relations. Panetta IMO was just stating the obvious: that the situation was serious and urgent.