Egypt: Islamic Extremists Destroy Homes in Christian Village
by Karen Faulkner, Worthy News Correspondent
(Worthy News) – Islamic extremists destroyed homes and property belonging to a Christian community in Minya Province, Egypt, earlier this week after hearing rumors about plans to build a church in the area, Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) reports.
The Christian village of Al-Fawakher in Minya Province was raided by extremists on April 23, CSW said. According to CSW sources, local police and firefighters were called, and they acted fast to bring the situation under control.
A police investigation has been launched to arrest the perpetrators, including those who incited the violence by spreading a false rumor about the church building, CSW said.
Commending the authorities for their quick intervention, CSW President Mervyn Thomas added in a statement: “An unacceptable culture of intimidation and discrimination is still far too prevalent in this region despite positive steps taken by the Egyptian authorities in recent years, and the personal commitment of President Sisi to fight sectarian extremism and promote equality of citizenship. Egyptian citizens should all be free to practice any religion or belief of their choosing without fear of threats or physical violence.”
In a website statement about the situation facing Christians in Egypt, the Open Doors international Christian advocacy organization noted: “President al-Sisi and his government regularly speak positively about Egypt’s Christian community—which, through the Coptic church, is long and historic. He purposely includes both Muslims and Christians in Egypt’s identity. However, this stance does not always extend to areas outside of major urban centers—authorities are known to ignore or downplay the concerns of Egyptian believers.”
Muslim-majority Egypt ranks 38 on the Open Doors World Watch List 2024 of the top 50 countries where Christians are persecuted.
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