For almost a decade, Egyptian President Abdel Fatah el-Sisi has wanted to curb religious extremism and enhance the status of Christians in his country. In the wake of Hamas’ Oct. 7th attacks in Israel — and the response from radicalized Muslims throughout the Middle East and beyond — the fruits of Sisi’s work on behalf of Egyptian Christians are now threatened. 

The enemy of my enemy is my friend, says the old proverb. It’s still relevant today, and it explains the current religious harmony in Egypt between pro-government elites, outlawed Muslim Brotherhood peers in the diaspora, and Jihadi supporters in general: All glorify acts of terrorism by Hamas.