![]() ![]() ![]() This highlights a main point about the Black Bloc: the group is actually not a group per se, but is a strategy launched by el-moshaghibeen (roughly translated as hooligans). It is difficult to establish whether the original group that called for such acts actually performed any of them, given that it claims to have no social media presence, that anyone can masquerade as a Black Bloc member, and that due to the theatrical nature of the tactics, other protestors are likely to claim responsibility for acts even if others undertook them. Media reports have recounted Black Bloc activities such as blocking the tramway in Alexandria, protecting foreigners from xenophobic attacks, and aiding women subject to sexual harassment in Tahrir Square. In one particular march from Shubra to Tahrir on 25 January, these “regular” protestors walked away as minor rock throwing clashes erupted, as they were not inclined to enact any of the violence promised in Black Bloc communiqués. Many young people, both male and female, responded to this call and were spotted during the marches. Members of the Black Bloc are said to have urged “regular” protesters to wear masks and join them. Only a video filmed in Alexandria in which Black Bloc members vow to fight against the Muslim Brotherhood’s “fascist” regime in order to “liberat the people, end corruption, and bring down tyrants,” as well as appearances during protests, contained traces of the group. But there was nothing concrete to which to point in terms of evidence. In January, the public prosecutor described the Black Bloc as a terrorist organization and noted his orders to arrest its unknown members. The group has garnered much interest both on the Egyptian street and in international media, and though they have been overhyped, they reflect a real sentiment in Egyptian street politics. The group, which takes its inspiration from “black blocs” the world round who wear black masks in order to protest anonymously, is known for such actions as halting public transportation and aiding people in distress. In March, Egypt’s public prosecutor announced the summoning of five members of the largely unknown group the Black Bloc. ![]()
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