03/10/2019 Egypt (International Christian Concern) –  Rumors that a terrorist attack had occurred near Egypt’s St. Samuel Monastery were quickly denied by local sources, who said that the incident was the result of a car crash. Since 2017, the road to the monastery has been the scene of two violent terrorist attacks by ISIS, leading to the deaths of dozens of Christian men, women, and children. The road itself has since become a point of contention between the church and the government.

Church officials have long complained that the road leading to the monastery was vulnerable to terrorist attacks. The unpaved road is not well-lighted, there is no telephone coverage for emergencies, and the one security checkpoint is not regularly staffed. Since the second terrorist attack in November 2018, some efforts have been made to remedy these problems. Cell towers are in the process of being established, after which the road is expected to be paved. Security around the monastery has remained very tight since November.

Egypt’s Coptic Christians frequently travel to monasteries, and the incidents at St. Samuel continues to haunt the plans of many believers. Although it has not deterred their efforts to travel to monasteries, many do so with the knowledge of ISIS’s record at selectively targeting groups of Christians traveling together. A general lack of predictable security is the pervading atmosphere within which Egypt’s Christians have become accustomed to practicing their faith.

For interviews with Claire Evans, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: [email protected].