<p><br /> Hundreds of Christian protesters have clashed with security forces over an imposed curfew in Alexandria in Egypt.<br /> </p><p><br /> It comes after a suspected car bomb exploded outside a Christian Church on New Year's Eve.<br /> </p><p><br /> Security forces cordoned off the area and would not allow the Christians into the church.<br /> </p><p><br /> Around two hundred Christian protesters gathered behind the church chanting slogans against the current regime. Protesters believed officials had breached their religious rights.<br /> </p><p><br /> In ensuing clashes, security forces used tear bombs to force protesters away from the Coptic Christian Church.<br /> </p><p><br /> According to reports at least 17 people were killed in the explosion but exact numbers are not yet certain.<br /> </p><p><br /> Hundreds stood weeping as the bodies of victims were placed into ambulances.<br /> </p><p><br /> In offering his condolences Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak described the blast as a 'terrorist attack', indicating the involvement of foreign elements.<br /> </p>
