In an interview with Al-Misrī Al-Yawm, Egyptian professor Dr. ‘Alī Al-Sammān said that the main reason behind the current sectarian crisis is ignorance. He said that even though the joint statement issued by the Pope and Grand Shaykh of the Azhar was important, society still has a huge role to play in ending the crisis. He said that Al-Jazeera was looking to create controversy when they spoke with Al-‘Awā, and that he absolutely disapproves of Bīshūy’s comments.

Key Words: Dr. ‘Alī Al-Sammān – Bishop Armiyā – Pope Shenouda III – Dr. Aḥmad al-Ṭayyib – Bishop Bīshūy – Dr. Muhammad Salīm Al-‘Awa – Al-Jazeera