Last Updated: Wednesday, 31 May 2023, 15:44 GMT

Egyptian prosecutors want trial for seven Coptic Christians linked to anti-Islamic film

Publisher Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty
Publication Date 18 September 2012
Cite as Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Egyptian prosecutors want trial for seven Coptic Christians linked to anti-Islamic film, 18 September 2012, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/50604091c.html [accessed 5 June 2023]
DisclaimerThis is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.

September 18, 2012

An anti-Islam film made in the United States has sparked outrage in many Muslim countries.An anti-Islam film made in the United States has sparked outrage in many Muslim countries. AFP

Egypt's general prosecutor has requested that seven Egyptian Coptic Christians who live in the United States face trial in Egypt over an anti-Islam video that has sparked riots across the Muslim world.

Prosecutors accuse the seven of blasphemy, attempting to divide Egypt, and causing sectarian strife.

The prosecutor's office alleges that they were involved either in the production or distribution of the low-budget video "Innocence of Muslims."

It says they could be tried in absentia and could face the death penalty.

Among those charged is Nakoula Basseley Nakoula, an Egyptian Coptic Christian living in southern California who is thought to be behind the video.

At least 19 people have been killed across the Muslim world during protests against the video.

The protests first broke out in Cairo on September 11.

Based on reporting by AP, AFP, and dpa

Link to original story on RFE/RL website

Copyright notice: Copyright (c) 2007-2009. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036

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