WASHINGTON — Two U.S. officials say that Egyptian defense leaders, who ousted President Mohammed Morsi on Wednesday, have assured the U.S. that they are not interested in a long-term rule.
The official says the leaders, in calls with Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, pledged to put a civilian government in place quickly.
U.S. officials also say the Egyptian military has said it will take steps to ensure the safety of Americans in Egypt, including the diplomatic mission.
The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak on the record about the matter.
The comments came as the Egyptian military suspended the Islamist-backed constitution and called for early elections.
