The Council of Egyptian Churches rejected foreign interference in domestic affairs in a statement issued on Saturday evening. The council, which includes representatives from the Coptic Orthodox, Catholic, Evangelical, Episcopal and Greek Orthodox churches, "affirmed the right of its citizens to defend themselves against terrorism." The statement issued by the group also condemned attacks on police stations, public property and citizens. The Council of Egyptian Churches condemned continuous attacks on churches throughout the country, along with Christian property, calling on the armed forces to support police in their efforts to restore security and stability to the country. The council is currently lead by the head of the Coptic Orthodox Church Pope Tawadros II. The statement also accused western media of spreading misinformation and possessing "stubbornness against the free people of Egypt." Sectarian violence escalated following the removal of President Mohamed Morsi. Attacks against churches and Christian communities further intensified last week when security forces dispersed sit-ins supporting Morsi at Rabaa Al-Adaweya and Al-Nahda Square. The violence left hundreds dead. The Coptic Orthodox Church released a statement on Friday announcing its full support for police and military in "standing in the face of armed and terrorist groups." It said it would not accept sectarian strife and extended condolences to families of those who died amidst the recent wave of violence in the country. It also stressed its rejection of international intervention in domestic affairs.
