The Coptic Orthodox Church has issued a statement in which it condemned the recent terrorist attack by IS (Islamic State) against a military checkpoint south of Rafah in North Sinai close to the Gaza border. The attack claimed the lives of 23 Egyptian military men, but a direct counterattack by the Egyptian air force killed some 40 IS militants and destroyed six of their vehicles.
The statement said that the Church, headed by Pope Tawadros, condemned the attack and prayed for the valiant Egyptians who lost their lives, also for their families and the injured. “We pray that God would protect Egypt’s security and stability. The country,” the statement said, “will remain safe and strong through the care of God and the bravery and sacrifice of its loyal sons.”
The incident drew condemnations and condolences form the various Churches in Egypt as well as State and public institutes; also from countries all over the world, who confirmed they supported Egypt in her battle against terrorism.
Watani International
8 July 2017