Egyptian military rulers have imposed a curfew in Cairo's iconic Tahrir Square area after 25 people, including three soldiers, were killed and 170 injured in the clashes between Coptic Christians and security forces.

The violence broke out after Coptic Christians protesting against an attack on a church clashed with security forces, forcing authorities to declare curfew in the area.

Central Cairo witnessed a demonstration by activists against the military rule while police augmented by special forces called on protesters to leave the area because they have been ordered to treat people breaking law and order with firmness.