Egypt to pass new anti-terror legislation following Cairo University bombings

In the aftermath of Wednesday's bombings at Cairo University that killed at least one policeman, Egyptian authorities are reportedly poised to pass new anti-terrorism legislation.

High-level meetings that included the prime minister, the defense minister, and the interior minister were held following the bombings to discuss a response to the attack.

Egyptian Prime Minister Ibrahim Mahlab voiced his intent to tighten security, saying, “This cowardly action will not discourage the state from its commitment to taking all measures to prevent terrorism from tampering with national security and safety.”

Government sources told Asharq Al-Awsat that new anti-terror legislation might be passed as early as Thursday.

The Egyptian government, which has decreed the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization, appealed Thursday to the international community for its support. The office of Egyptian President Adly Mansour issued a statement Thursday, asking other countries to "take clear a stance, through full cooperation, to drain the sources of terrorism."

Mansour's office also condemned Wednesday's attack, asserting, "These dark forces are not targeting the guardians of the nation -- the army and the police -- they are targeting Cairo University and its students."

Jihadist group Ajnad Misr (Soldiers of Egypt) claimed responsibility on social media for the bombings at Cairo University.

According to an Egyptian security source who spoke with Asharq Al-Awsat, Cairo University was not the target of Wednesday's attack. Rather, "The bombs targeted police cars parked outside the Faculty of Engineering."

[Asharq Al-Awsat]