Magdolin Harmina

Religious authorities and the spread of the Corona pandemic

Religious beliefs play a fundamental role in the hygienic practices, from preparation of food to handwashing rituals. However, some claim that their faith alone is a strong enough disinfectant and thereby help to spread the virus in the Middle East.

Frescoes in the Syrian monastery Deir Mar Musa
Abd al-Fattah as-Sisi
An analysis of Egypt’s war on ISIS in the Sinai

While being defeated in Iraq and Syria, the so-called Islamic State still fights on in other regions. In the Sinai they appear to hold their ground – despite a brutal crackdown by the country's military.