OIC strongly denounces terrorist attack on two churches in Egypt

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) strongly denounced the terrorist attack on two coptic churches in Egypt on Palm Sunday, a day to commemorate Jesus Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem, according to Christian belief, which killed innocent civilians and injured many others.

In a statement, OIC secretary-general, Dr Yousef Ahmad Al-Othaimeen, reaffirmed the Jeddah-based organisation's principled and resolute position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

He conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Egypt in general and wished the wounded speedy recovery.

Egypt's Ministry of Health said that the first bombing, in Tanta, north of Cairo, tore through the inside of St George Church during its Palm Sunday service, killing at least 27 people and injuring at least 78.

The second, a few hours later in Alexandria, hit Saint Mark's Cathedral, the historic seat of the Coptic Pope, killing 17 people, including three police officers, and injuring 48, the ministry added.

Meanwhile, CNN reported that Islamic State (Daesh) claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has declared a three-month state of emergency late Sunday night, following the attacks. -- Bernama