'Bear the Pain,' Egyptians Told, as Emergency Measures Declared
- New council set up to combat terrorism, granted sweeping power
- Moves came after twin church bombings killed more than 40
Egyptian President Declares 3-Month State of Emergency
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi declared a three-month state of emergency after the worst terrorist attack on civilians under his rule raised fears that Islamic State was planning to launch more assaults on major cities.
The radical group claimed responsibility for twin church bombings on Palm Sunday in the cities of Tanta and Alexandria, signaling an intent to expand its presence beyond the confines of the Sinai Peninsula. More than 40 people were killed, prompting El-Sisi to declare measures that included setting up a new, powerful, anti-terror body. The former defense minister-turned-president also lauded Egyptians for withstanding current security and economic challenges, and urged them to show even more patience.