Skip to main content

Egypt's youth turn to Islamic State

The security restrictions imposed by the authorities in Egypt on its youth are pushing many to believe in the ideology of the Islamic State (IS) and become actively involved in IS cells in Egyptian society.
A supporter of Muslim Brotherhood's presidential candidate Mohamed Morsy celebrate his victory in the election with Salafi flag at Tahrir Square in Cairo June 24, 2012. Islamist Morsy was declared Egypt's first freely elected president on Sunday, sparking joy among his Muslim Brotherhood supporters on the streets who vowed to continue a struggle to take power from the generals who retain ultimate control. REUTERS/Amr Abdallah Dalsh  (EGYPT - Tags: POLITICS ELECTIONS) - RTR343KP
Read in 

“I used to believe in the motto, ‘Our peacefulness is more powerful than bullets.’ But when bullets started being directed at us and we were accused of being terrorists, I started to believe only in force to preserve my beliefs and establish the Islamic State in Egypt.”

This is what a former Muslim Brotherhood youth told Al-Monitor when asked about the reason why he believes and supports the Islamic State (IS).

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.