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Israel committed to Egypt peace treaty

JERUSALEM, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- Israel's prime minister and defense minister distanced themselves from a top Israeli official who called the rule in Egypt a "terrible dictatorship."

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu's office referred to remarks by Amos Gilad, the Defense Ministry's security and diplomatic chief Friday, in which he discussed the radicalization in Egypt.

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"Amos Gilad's comments in no way represent those of the government of Israel. The government of Israel does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries. We remain committed to the peace treaty with Egypt," the statement said.

Defense Minister Ehud Barak's office said Gilad had not intended to interfere with internal Egyptian politics but was merely expressing concern, Israel Radio said.

Speaking before students at an event at Herzliya's Interdisciplinary Center, Gilad discussed the situation in Egypt, which he says has increasingly radicalized since the election of President Mohamed Morsi. Gilad said ties between Jerusalem and Cairo were almost frozen.

His statements were broadcast on all of Israel's television channels..

"There's no talking between our diplomatic corps and theirs, and I believe there will not be in the future. Morsi won't talk with us. A terrible dictatorship sprouted from the desire for democracy (in Egypt)," Gilad said.

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