"The United States condemns the life sentence issued today in Egypt against American citizen Mohamed Soltan. We call for Mr. Soltan's immediate release from prison," the White House statement said Saturday.
The statement stressed that US authorities were concerned about Soltan's health after a 20-month incarceration.
The White House said the US president was deeply committed to the welfare of all US citizens abroad and the government would provide the necessary help for Soltan to return to his home country.
"We will ensure that Mr. Soltan continues to receive consular support until he can return safely to the United States, per his wishes," the White House said.
On Saturday, Soltan received a life sentence in Egypt alongside other 36 people accused of plotting terror attacks in the country. The leader of the Muslim Brotherhood Islamist organization, Mohammed Badie, and other 13 members were sentenced to death.
