Egypt’s parliament on Thursday approved a three-month extension of the state of emergency.

This is the ninth extension of the state of emergency in Egypt since it was imposed in April 2017, when two attacks targeting two churches killed at least 45 people.

The Egyptian constitution stipulates that the parliament must approve the declaration of a state of emergency.  Article 154 states: “The majority of the members of the council shall approve the declaration of a state of emergency. The declaration of a state of emergency shall not exceed three months and shall not be extended for another similar period after the approval of two thirds of the members of the council.”

The resolution requires the armed forces and the police to take the necessary measures to counter the threats and financing of terrorism, to maintain security throughout the country, to protect public and private property and to protect the lives of citizens.

The Prime Minister shall also be delegated in the terms of reference of the President of the Republic provided for in Law No. 162 of 1958 on the state of emergency. Any person who contravenes the orders issued by the President of the Republic shall be punished by imprisonment.