US President Barack Obama on Monday called on all parties in Egypt to show restraint in mass protests against President Mohamed Morsi, and specifically warned against attacks on women.

"Everybody has to show restraint," Obama said at a press conference in Tanzania, adding that "for those who are participating in these protests or marches, assaulting women does not qualify as peaceful protests."

Egypt's armed forces later issued a statement giving all Egyptian political forces 48 hours as a last chance to solve the ongoing problems.

Should the political forces fail to end ongoing disputes, the armed forces will announce a "new roadmap for the future," and will enforce certain measures with the help of all factions including the youth, without excluding anyone, according to the statement. 

Obama did not take a position on whether it was time for Morsi to go, but called on his government to reach out to the opposition and work through a legitimate process, and to observe the rule of law.

"What is clear right now is that although Mr. Morsi was elected democratically, there is more work to be done to create the conditions in which everybody feels their voices are heard," Obama said.