ANOTHER BLACK FRIDAY FOR THE COPTIC CHRISTIANS OF EGYPT

ANOTHER BLACK FRIDAY FOR THE COPTIC CHRISTIANS OF EGYPT
For the past 35 years the Coptic Christians of Egypt have been targeted by a wave of brutal attacks on their persons, churches, homes and businesses. Over one hundred and twenty major attacks have been documented on the Copts during this period. It is estimated that over 4000 Copts have been killed or injured during this period, not to mention the material losses running into tens of millions of dollars.
Many of the documented attacks took place after Muslim Friday prayers in mosques. The vast majority of these attacks were not committed by organized terrorist groups, but by 'ordinary' people from the neighbourhood, under the influence of hate propaganda emitted through the media, the education system and mosque preaching. The Egyptian justice system has yet to adequately punish a single Muslim perpetrator.
The latest attack on Friday May 11, 2007 in Bamha, 15 miles south of Cairo, was a result of a rumour circulated among the Muslims that the Copts of the village were planning to convert a house, which they used (with the authorities' knowledge) for prayers, into a church. The Muslim worshippers were incited by the Imam of the mosque and a few other fanatics to rise and defend Islam against the 'Christian infidels.' A Muslim mob estimated in excess of 500, went on a rampage using fireballs, knives and hatchets that in burning 27 homes and shops owned by Copts. At least 10 Copts including several women, were injured; one of the victims is in a serious condition.
The developments that followed were even more serious. The frightened Copts were expecting the authorities to ensure their safety, security and justice, but what took place simply added insult to injury. The authorities conducted a meeting of "reconciliation" between the victim Copts and the aggressors, where an imposed settlement virtually stripped the Copts of all rights. Under the terms of the settlement, Muslims were not bound to pay for damages nor assume any criminal responsibility; and the house which was the centre of the dispute could be used only for Sunday school classes and the cross cannot be displayed on the building.
Once again, the Egyptian Government has foregone its duty to prosecture lawbreakers and guarantee the safety of its citizens. Once again, the Copts have been denied basic justice and the fundamental right to pray in peace without being harassed. The reprehensible failure of Egypt to guarantee religious freedom, justice and accountability towards the Copts simply amounts to an invitation to continue the same against them in the future.
Source: Christian Newswire