US confirms sale of unmarked tear gas canisters to Egypt

The United States on Monday confirmed the USD 2.5 million sale of unmarked tear gas canisters to the Egypt. "I can tell you that we have approved an export license for the shipment of US-manufactured nonlethal riot-control agents to the Egyptian government ... We urge professionalism and respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights and all of our training interaction with our Egyptian counterparts. We know that the protection of human rights is a key component of our training," State Department spokesperson Patrick Ventrell said at a press briefing. He defended the controversial private sale of the tear gas canisters used by riot police to disperse protesters, saying "when used appropriately, these products can save lives and can protect property". The canisters reportedly do not have a sign indicating it was made in the US. The order was made to cover Egypt's shortage of teargas after months of aggressive clashes between police and protesters. Meanwhile, the State Department said it is continuing to work with Egyptian security forces on human rights training as the government undergoes a complicated democratic transition.