Egyptian Christians fearful of security situation

Jerusalem, June 8 (ENInews)--The security situation in Egypt has
"deteriorated considerably" since former president Hosni Mubarak stepped down on 11
February, leaving a security vacuum and Christians feeling "threatened more
than ever," according to aid workers. 

"Security is still not where it needs to be to give people a greater sense
of personal safety. Undoubtedly, there has been an increase in the
tensions between Muslims and Christians since Mubarak stepped down ... All
Egyptians, not just [Coptic Christians], feel more insecure these days," said
Jason Belanger of Catholic Relief. Christians make up about 10 percent of
Egypt's 80 million people. Copts are a branch of the Orthodox church. 

Since Mubarak’s overthrow, violence in Cairo has left 24 dead, more than
200 wounded, and three churches destroyed. Media reports are rife with
descriptions of the tense sectarian violence that has increased since the
winter. Belanger said the interim government was taking a "hands-off" approach to
dealing with the attacks against Christians and was "not doing enough to
ensure it immediately responds to these attacks."