The important role of the church in Egypt’s political and social life has not been acknowledged by most worshipers so far. This follows the recent killing of 21 Copts by Islamic State militants, a direct consequence of Egypt’s military engagement in neighboring countries. The newly gained attention of the Egyptian church by the Egyptian president ʿAbd al-Fattāh al-Sīsī poses a challenge to the country’s political and religious peace. While accommodating the Copts in an environment of growing Islamist activities within Egypt can be interpreted as an attempt by the regime to win their political support, it might also cause further radicalization of Muslims who feel increasingly neglected by the regime. Keeping this balance is imperative for political stability in Egypt.

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