A Federal Foreign Office Spokesperson issued the following statement today (9 January) on the attack in the north of the Sinai Peninsula, which killed at least nine people, almost all of whom were police officers:

“We categorically condemn the attack on a police checkpoint in the city of Al-Arish in the north of the Sinai Peninsula and the attempted attack on a further checkpoint. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We wish all those who were injured a rapid and full recovery.

The circumstances of and background to the incident are still unclear. However, there can be no doubt that nothing can justify such terrorist acts. Terrorism is a threat that the international community faces together. We stand by Egypt’s side in the fight against terrorism.”