In a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry, U.S. Senators Roy Blunt (Mo.), Bob Corker (Tenn.) and Lamar Alexander (Tenn.) said recent reports of more frequent,

targeted attacks against Coptic churches and individuals in Egypt “warrants a clear U.S. response.”

“Egypt’s Christian minority and their ability to worship are in danger. The situation warrants a clear U.S. response. We are especially troubled by reports that Egyptian authorities have failed to respond to attacks on Christians and churches, or hold perpetrators accountable,” wrote the senators. “It is our view that Egypt is part of a broader trend: religious freedoms throughout the Middle East and South Central Asia, particularly for Christians, are under assault. The U.S. must respond to this challenge and continue to be a forceful defender of religious freedom throughout the world. We recognize this is not an easy task. We offer our support and stand prepared to work with you as you find ways to use U.S. influence to stop sectarian violence and end the persecution of Coptic Christians in Egypt.”

In August 2013, Blunt reiterated calls for Congress to pass bipartisan legislation aimed at promoting and protecting religious freedoms throughout the region. Blunt’s bill would create a new U.S. Department of State special envoy for religious minorities in the Middle East.