The Muslim Council of Elders condemned the heinous terrorist attack which targeted Saint Mark's Coptic Cathedral in the Abbasiya, east of the Egyptian capital Cairo, on Sunday morning.

''These criminal acts committed by the black terrorist group are also actions against tolerant Islam and other heavenly religions which call for respect, protection and conservation of houses of worship,'' said the Council in a statement today.

The Council also expressed its solidarity with the church in the fight against terrorism and violence.

''The Council stands besides the Egyptian state and its institutions in their efforts to confront and eradicate these violent terrorist groups,'' said Dr. Ali Al Nuaimi, Secretary-General of the Council.

He also extended the Council's heartfelt condolences to the Egyptian church, Pope Tawadros II, as well as to the government and people of Egypt.