Christians have been urged to pray for peace in Egypt’s Minya Province, after sectarian violence broke out following online rumours that a young Christian man was in a relationship with a Muslim girl.

Christian Solidarity Worldwide reports that hate speech on social media was used to galvanise members of the Muslim community, who gathered outside Christian homes and properties, throwing stones and incendiary devices at buildings in the village of Nazlat Jalf, Beni Mazar.

Police responded to the disturbance and made a number of arrests. Local reports suggest a reconciliation session is being organised by authorities in an effort to calm tensions.

Sectarian violence is a recurring issue in Upper Egypt, with local authorities often relying on informal reconciliation sessions rather than pursuing legal accountability for perpetrators. These extra-legal mechanisms usually impose ad hoc and, at times, unconstitutional conditions on victims.

CSW’s Chief Executive, Scot Bower, commented: “Sectarian attacks are not only assaults on innocent people; they also undermine the fundamental rights and human dignity that should be enjoyed by every citizen.

“CSW commends the swift action of local police. However, for the violence that took place in Nazlat Jalf to be addressed effectively, the Egyptian authorities must crack down on hate speech, sectarian incitement and the culture of collective punishment of entire communities. They must also ensure that every citizen is treated equally, and that all perpetrators are held accountable under the law, regardless of their religion or belief.”