State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki appeared on Monday to be caught criticizing the department’s own talking point about an Egyptian court’s acquittal of former dictator Hosni Mubarak.
Just after the department’s daily press briefing, Psaki rolled her eyes before giving a friendly glance to Matt Lee of the Associated Press as he approached the lectern. “That Egypt line is ridiculous,” she said, as the TV lights dimmed. Lee, who is known for asking tough questions, could be heard laughing in response.
On Saturday, an Egyptian court acquitted Mubarak, a former US ally, of conspiring to kill 846 protesters. Those killed participated in demonstrations that led to his 2011 downfall.
Mubarak’s replacement, Mohammed Morsi, the former Muslim Brotherhood leader and the only democratically-elected President of Egypt, was overthrown by the military in 2013.
Morsi’s successor, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, has presided over a government that has been panned for its Mubarak-like behavior. Although popular among many Egyptians, Sisi’s government has killed hundreds of protesters. Sisi is also alleged to have rigged the only election he won–a vote held in May.
The US gives Egypt’s military $1.3 billion in annual aid.
When asked about the court’s decision on Monday, Psaki avoided commenting on it directly.
“Generally, we continue to believe that upholding impartial standards of accountability will advance the political consensus on which Egypt’s long-term stability and economic growth depends,” she said, “but beyond that I would refer you to the Egyptian government for any further comment.”
A back and forth ensued between Psaki and reports, as the latter clamored for clarification.
“Wow. I don’t understand that at all,” Lee said.
“What you said says nothing. It’s like saying ‘we support the right of people to breathe.’ That’s great, but if you can’t breathe,” he added before being interrupted by Psaki, who refused to elaborate.
The exchange can be watched below. Psaki’s hot mic moment happens just after 2:00.
On Tuesday, the Egyptian prosecutor general’s office announced that it is appealing Mubarak’s acquittal.
Psaki’s colleague Marie Harf said the same day that the State Department will consequently “continue to follow developments in this trial.”
“I don’t even know if this is worth trying,” Lee stammered, as he struggled to word a question to get Harf to further delve into the subject matter.
“I share your pain, Matt,” she responded.
The State Department spokesperson did note, however, in response to another question from Lee, that the US has voiced concerns about the integrity of the Egyptian judicial system.
“We’ve been very outspoken about our concerns,” Harf said.
