At least 43 people were killed and 100 were wounded in bombings at two Coptic churches in Egypt as worshippers were celebrating Palm Sunday.
The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the twin bombings, which came at the start of the Holy Week ahead of Easter. The first bomb exploded inside St. George’s Church in Tanta, killing about 27 people and wounding 78. The second attack occurred after a suicide bomber rushed toward St. Mark’s Cathedral in Alexandria, killing at least 16 people and wounding 41.
Photos from the blasts show scenes of carnage at the churches, with bloodied bodies and lifeless corpses being wheeled away on a cart.
The attack came just weeks before Pope Francis is due to visit Egypt.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Nicola Coughlan Bet on Herself—And Won
- What Kind of President Would Kamala Harris Be?
- Is Adrenal Fatigue Real?
- Why It's So Hard to Quit Vaping
- Our Guide to Voting in the 2024 Election
- The 10 Races That Will Determine Control of the Senate
- Column: How My Shame Became My Strength
- Meet TIME's Newest Class of Next Generation Leaders
Write to Mahita Gajanan at mahita.gajanan@time.com