Views of Egypt’s Coptic Christians on Israel: A Deeper Dive

The relationship between Egypt’s Coptic Christians and Israel is often misunderstood due to historical and religious tensions. While many believe that Coptic Christians shares similar views with Muslims regarding Israel, this is not entirely accurate. Let us explore the roots of their unique perspectives and the historical context that shaped these views.

Anti-Semitism within the Coptic Church Hierarchy

The Coptic Church hierarchy is deeply rooted in Anti-Semitism, viewing the Zionist movement with extreme dislike. This anti-Israel sentiment is often expressed through venomous rhetoric, and it is a prevailing attitude among many Coptic Christians. However, it is important to note that not all Coptic Christians hold these views, and expressing ambivalence could be risky, leading to the parroting of stereotypical hatred by many.

Why Muslim Egyptians Hate Israel

Muslim Egyptians view themselves as Arabs and see Israel as occupying an Arab land, leading to a sense of nationalistic fervor and a desire to fight back. This sentiment stems from a deep-rooted belief that Israel’s actions are invasive and oppressive. It’s a common narrative in the region that Israel must be expelled from Arab territories.

The Coptic Christian Perspective

In contrast, Coptic Christians, while not viewing themselves as Arabs, do consider Egypt as their homeland. Unlike their Muslim counterparts, they do not see Palestine as part of their historic and nationalistic struggle. This perspective is crucial in understanding why many Coptic Christians do not see Israel as a threat to their land.

Coptic Christians do not actively seek to engage in a war to free Palestine because they believe it is not part of Egypt's national narrative. However, this does not mean they are indifferent or complacent. They have shown their willingness to defend Egypt from external threats, as proven during the 1973 war. For many Coptic Christians, their loyalty is to their nation, not to a religious or historical dispute.

Historical Context and Examples

The role of Coptic Christians in defending Egypt against threats, such as the 1973 war, demonstrates their commitment to the nation. Below are some notable examples:

Baki Zaki Youssef - He was instrumental in developing the strategy to destroy the Bar-Lev line’s sand barrier using high-pressure water. Samir Aziz Mikhail - One of the most skilled Egyptian pilots, credited with two confirmed kills. Thousands of Coptic Troops and Officers - Many Coptic Christians fought bravely for their homeland during various conflicts, including many of my grandmother’s relatives.

Coptic Christians have ample reasons to be concerned about Israel’s actions, such as the violence directed against Christian Palestinians and the forcible displacement of people from their homes. However, their views are shaped by a focus on national security and a desire to protect their homeland from external threats rather than a religious or ideological conflict.

Conclusion: Understanding the Complexities

It is essential to understand that the views of Egypt’s Coptic Christians on Israel are nuanced and not as polarized as one might think. While they may hold strong negative views towards Israel's actions, their primary concern is the wellbeing and defense of Egypt. This perspective highlights the importance of a balanced and informed understanding of regional conflicts and national identities.