Obama speaks to Qatar, UAE leaders on Egypt

The White House says President Barack Obama has spoken with the leaders of Qatar and the United Arab Emirates - two countries with opposing loyalties in Egypt's political turmoil.

Obama and Qatar’s Sheik Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani discussed the urgency for Egypt’s military to return control to a democratic, civilian government. Qatar was a major supporter of ousted President Mohammed Mursi and his Muslim Brotherhood.

With Emirati Crown Prince Sheik Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Obama discussed concerns about violence and the need for a political process inclusive of all religious and political groups. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are promising Egypt’s new leadership $8 billion in aid, a major boost that rewards the military for unseating Mursi.

The Obama administration says it’s not taking sides in the conflict.