Obama reassures diplomats after riots

The White House says President Barack Obama has called officials at U.S. diplomatic facilities in North Africa and the Middle East to reassure them that their security is a top priority for the U.S. government.

Obama called officials working in Sudan, Tunisia, Libya and Yemen in the wake of violent protests that broke out in response to a low-budget movie that denigrates the Prophet Muhammad. The U.S. ambassador to Libya and three other Americans were killed last week, and riots continue throughout the region.

White House spokesman Josh Earnest said Obama called U.S. missions over the weekend to "let those diplomats know that he was thinking about them, that their safety remains a top priority" even as he continues campaigning for re-election.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.