Armed men killed Christians in front of church in Cairo

Armed attackers killed three Christians in front of a church in Cairo who were gathered outside the house of worship after a wedding celebration. Among the victims is also an eight-year-old girl. The perpetrators suddenly opened fire on the group of believers. The motives behind the act remain unclear, and security forces have launched an investigation. This was reported by Salzburger Nachrichten. The act occurred against the backdrop of increasing tensions and repeatedly flaring violence against the Coptic Christian minority in Egypt. According to official reports, this is the first deadly attack on Christians in the capital since the political upheavals in the country. The attack shows how vulnerable the Christian community remains despite government assurances to ensure their security. Observers fear that such attacks could further strain the social climate and additionally worsen the situation of Christians.

Christians make up about six to ten percent of Egypt's population, with the majority belonging to the Coptic Orthodox Church. During the political crisis of recent years, many Christians increasingly became targets of extremist groups and repeatedly faced threats and attacks.

Previously, UOJ reported that Bishop Meier visited Christians in Syria on a solidarity trip.

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