Congressman Sires Condemns Targeted Bombings of Coptic Christians

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Sires issued the following statement regarding the bombings that occurred during Palm Sunday services at two Coptic Christian Churches in Egypt:

“I condemn these bombings which ripped through two churches in the middle of Palm Sunday services in Egypt over the weekend. Attacking innocent families as they come together on a holy day is the height of cowardice and barbarity. It is unfortunately another reminder of the work that needs to be done to combat terrorists bent on targeting people based on their belief systems.

Coptic Christians have always been a strong part of the diverse community in New Jersey and Jersey City is the proud home of the first Coptic Church in America. Just last week I met with President El-Sisi of Egypt and we spoke about the importance of protecting the Coptic community. As I said then, I will reiterate that it is imperative we work with our allies in Egypt to make sure the perpetrators of these violent acts do not go unpunished. The Egyptian government must continue its efforts to protect religious minorities in their homeland.

I offer my condolences to the families and the victims of these horrific attacks and call on the leaders in the region to renew their commitment to defeating extremism wherever it finds a home.”