The three Christians were transported to the University Hospital in Minya. Local police arrested some of the assailants. 

The incident is one of the many in Upper Egypt, where intimidation, harassment and violence against Christians and other minority religions are increasing. Christians in Ashruba village live in constant fear. They are also obliged to accept the ad-hoc outcomes of ‘customary reconciliation sessions’ following an incident, which deprive victims of justice and prevent them from getting appropriate legal support.

Copts United reports that local Christians demand long-term solutions to violence. They request the government to implement laws and hold perpetrators accountable instead of using such sessions.

The founder president of Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Mervyn Thomas, expressed his resentment: “Our thoughts are with the injured men recovering in hospital after this brutal attack. The persistent culture of intimidation and discrimination against Christians in this region is unacceptable, despite positive measures taken by the Egyptian government and President Sisi’s commitment to equality. We commend the local authorities for their swift action and urge them to continue addressing extremism, sectarian hatred, and incitement, ensuring the end of practices that foster community division. We also call for the safe return of Julia Atef and for those responsible for her disappearance to be brought to justice.”

Another reported incident is the disappearance of Julia Atef, a 21-year-old Christian girl. She has been missing since October 26th. She was last seen on her way to a church function at St Mark’s Church in Shubra Al-Khayma. Julia’s family reported her disappearance to the police, who are still investigating the occurrence. 

Source: https://premierchristian.news