Canada shuts down Egypt embassy over security concerns

A bitter standoff between Egypt's Islamist government, its military and millions of protesters has worsened in recent days, leading Canada to shut down its embassy in the country and urge Canadians to avoid travel to the region.

President Mohamed Morsi refused an order from the country's military leaders to cede control of Egypt as millions of protesters took to the streets in protests.

Agence France-Presse reports that U.S. President Barack Obama has called Morsi and warned him that the voices of Egyptians must be heard, while other countries were also taking steps ahead of a potential upheaval.

Canada announced on Tuesday that it has closed its Cairo embassy until further notice.

The Department of Foreign Affairs is also urging "a high degree of caution" while travelling to Egypt as tension between protesters, the military and Islamist President Mohamed Morsi continue to escalate.

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While Canada hasn't yet announced a nationwide advisory against travel to Egypt, it has slapped regional alerts against areas of the Sinai Peninsula, outside resorts such as Sharm El Sheikh, and the areas of Port Said, Suez and Ismailia - where violent demonstrations have resulted in at least 20 deaths.

The closure of Cairo's Canadian Embassy means Canadians in Egypt will have a more difficult time receiving government assistance and protection.

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The U.S., England, New Zealand and Australia have also urged against travel to Egypt as protests continue to escalate.

“Dangerous divisions within Egypt threaten its stability and damage its long-term economic prospects," Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird said last week.

"Canada calls on all parties to remain calm and participate in the political process. We urge the government of Egypt to foster more meaningful political participation by the opposition to focus on rebuilding the Egyptian economy."