Obama Administration Criticizes Egyptian Authorites for Violence

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is increasing its criticism of Egypt's military rulers for a new wave of violence that has left 29 dead since Saturday.

State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland is condemning Egypt's police for using excessive force. And she says Egypt's military leadership must exercise maximum restraint and discipline its forces.

The tone contrasted with her comments Monday, when she "deplored" the violence but declined to blame Egyptian authorities for any wrongdoing.

The State Department balanced its criticism Tuesday with praise of Egypt's military leaders for pledging to hold elections as planned and hand back power to civilians before July.

Nuland called these important commitments and said the U.S. would hold the military to its promises.