In a statement, President Obama again refused to back Mubarak’s immediate departure, saying “it is not yet clear’’ whether the transition to democracy in Egypt will be “immediate, meaningful or sufficient.'’ In brief remarks shortly before Mubarak's address, Obama spoke in vague terms about the Egyptian uprising.

President Obama: “What is absolutely clear is that we are witnessing history unfold. It’s a moment of transformation that’s taking place because the people of Egypt are calling for change. They’ve turned out in extraordinary numbers representing all ages and all walks of life, but it’s young people who have been at the forefront, a new generation, your generation, who want their voices to be heard. And so, going forward, we want those young people and we want all Egyptians to know America will continue to do everything that we can to support an orderly and genuine transition to democracy in Egypt.”