Egypt has banned Shiite websites and TV channels, including the website of renowned Shiite activist Ahmed Rasem al-Nafis, in an attempt to prevent any exploitation of religious ideologies to achieve political gains.

The Cairo Administrative Court decided Feb. 23 to accept the lawsuit filed by lawyer Samir Sabry in which he demanded the closure and cessation of Shiite websites and TV channels in general, and Nafis’ website in particular.

“The reasons behind this verdict are based on the dangers of Shiite ideology on Egyptian society and national security as Shiites in Egypt use religion for political manipulation,” the office of Sabry told Al-Monitor. “The purpose of those who advocate Shiite ideology is aimed at creating discord in the country and implementing the agendas of foreign countries to destroy the Egyptian state.”

Nafis, who is also a physician, told Al-Monitor that the closing of his website is part of the government crackdown on freedom of expression, opinion and religion. “There are many websites that have been shut down in Egypt and it is no wonder that my site has been closed as well,” he said.