The Sawt Al-Azhar newspaper published statements from the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed al-Tayeb, refuting various misconceptions regarding greeting Christians in Egypt on their holidays. In his messages, the Grand Imam emphasized the human and Islamic values that promote tolerance and affection. Imam al-Tayeb clarified that greeting Christians on their holidays stems from the teachings of true religion, noting that Islam views non-Muslims through a lens of fraternity. The Grand Imam added that full equality in rights and duties among all citizens, regardless of their beliefs, is a fundamental principle in Islam. He stressed that the Quran and the Sunnah do not prohibit the construction of churches, and that Sharia law equates the defense of mosques with the defense of churches and synagogues.

Source: Egypt Independent January 01, 2026 14:50 UTC