CAIRO: The number of soldiers killed in Saturday clashes in North Sinai has reached seven, while 59 “terrorists” have been killed, military spokesperson said in a Sunday statement.
“The forces killed 59 terrorists and arrest four, besides destroying two explosions warehouses and two cruise vehicles, carrying two vehicles and four motorcycles, and detonating two explosive devices that were prepared to target the armed forces,” said Samir.
The Spokesperson stated that the military launched air strikes on a number of “terrorist and takfiri hotbeds” in 14 areas in Sinai, “rebutting claims of the victory” of militants on media outlets supporting “terrorists.”
He said that the raids will continue on hideouts until Arish, Rafah and Sheikh Zuwayed cities “are cleared of terrorist elements.”
On July 1, Egypt’s Cabinet approved an anti-terrorism draft law; the same day militants launched simultaneous attacks on several North Sinai checkpoints, killing 17 soldiers.
Article 33 of the draft law stipulates a minimum of a two-year sentence for those who report false news or information about any “terrorist attacks” that contradict official data.
The Cabinet said in a statement on July 1 that the anti-terrorism legislation would provide “rapid and just deterrence.” .