New counter-terrorism body to increase social awareness, correct misconceptions

Cairo—11 April 2017: A counter-terrorism council announced by President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi Sunday will be responsible for establishing comprehensive strategies to confront extremism, said a Tuesday statement released by the Egyptian Presidency.


In the statement Presidency Spokesperson Alaa Youssef said that the council, known as the “Supreme Council for Combating Terrorism,” will work on enhancing participation of all spectrums of society in fighting terrorism.

Youssef noted that among the council’s responsibilities will be to “develop security plans, increase social awareness and correct misconceptions used by terrorist organizations to recruit more militants.”

During a Sunday speech, following deadly bombings that targeted two Egyptian churches, President Sisi said that the new council will be issued pending legislation, which means his decision will be referred to the parliament for approval.

Sunday's attacks, which took place in the cities of Tanta and Alexandria, left at least 48 dead. Sisi mourned the victims and announced a three-month state of emergency.

Youssef also mentioned that all ministers, heads of state institutions concerned with terrorism, public figures and experts will be represented at the new council.

The statement explained that the new council will include a number of committees, which will be tasked with studying and analyzing terrorist organizations, as well as supporting families of terrorism victims.