The Egyptian Front for Human Rights (EFHR) condemns the targeting of citizens on the basis of their religious beliefs, and the use of counter-terrorism laws to prosecute individuals solely due to their sectarian affiliation, which constitutes a flagrant violation of the freedom of belief and conscience guaranteed under the Egyptian Constitution and international human rights instruments.
On 14 and 15 July 2026, the Supreme State Security Prosecution commenced interrogations of 20 individuals affiliated with the Shia faith, including journalist Mohamed Haider Emad of Al-Dustour newspaper, in connection with Case No. 5653 of 2026, registered with the Supreme State Security Prosecution.
The prosecution charged the defendants with “leading a terrorist organisation,” “joining a terrorist organisation,” and “financing a terrorist organisation.” At the conclusion of the interrogations, the prosecution ordered the pre-trial detention of 19 defendants for 15 days pending further investigation, while ordering the release of one defendant.
The interrogations centred on the defendants’ adherence to the Shia faith, with the prosecution questioning them about the duration of their conversion, the locations of their gatherings, and the nature of their religious practices.
Security forces had arrested the defendants on 24 June 2026, after which they were subjected to enforced disappearance for approximately 20 days in facilities belonging to the National Security Agency in both Abbasiya and Giza, before being brought before the Supreme State Security Prosecution for interrogation.
The Egyptian Front for Human Rights calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees, an end to criminal prosecutions based on religious affiliation, and the accountability of those responsible for the enforced disappearances to which the defendants were subjected.