In Egypt, churches have suspended pilgrimages, holidays and conferences for the remainder of July and August after authorities warned them about possible attacks by Islamic terrorists. <br/><br/>Ishak Ibrahim, an activist and a top researcher on the Egyptian church, yesterday reported the suspension by the<br/>majority Coptic Orthodox and the smaller Anglican and Catholic churches. Security officials, pastors and other activists<br/>confirmed the suspension. <br/><br/>They said the warning was delivered to church representatives during a meeting this week with top army and security commanders in the southern city of Assiut. At least two of these festivals will take place in Assiut, home to a sizable Christian community. Security officials confirmed the heightened measures and the warnings conveyed to the churches. <br/><br/>Militants have been waging attacks against security forces there for years, but they have recently expanded to the<br/>mainland. Egyptian President El-Sissi declared a nationwide state of emergency in April after suicide bombers targeted two churches north of Cairo.