President Trump said Christian communities in the Middle East must be defended after the “merciless slaughter of Christians” in Egypt on Friday.
“Terrorists are engaged in a war against civilization, and it is up to all who value life to confront and defeat this evil,” Trump said in a statement released by the White House. “This merciless slaughter of Christians in Egypt tears at our hearts and grieves our souls.”
At least 28 people were killed Friday when gunmen opened fire on a bus taking Christians to a monastery near Cairo, according to the Associated Press. Trump said he stands with Egyptian President Al Sisi and “all the Egyptian people today, and always, as we fight to defeat this common enemy.”
“America also makes clear to its friends, allies, and partners that the treasured and historic Christian communities of the Middle East must be defended and protected,” Trump said. “The bloodletting of Christians must end, and all who aid their killers must be punished.”
