The governor of Aswan said then that Copts were “wrong” (to have exceeded slightly the permitted height) and that Muslims had reason to “correct” that error.
A few days later, a peaceful demonstration by Copts in Cairo to protest the attack ended into the infamous massacre of Maspero, where 27 persons were killed, including some who were crushed under army APCs.
Later on, the army, perhaps feeling guilty, agreed to rebuild the church. In compliance with the Muslims’ demands, the church was rebuilt without domes, bell-tower, or crosses. To further appease them, a mosque was built right next to the church.
The mosque has been open for prayers, but not the church as the authorities delayed, again and again, its opening pending the acceptance by the village Muslims to allow Christians to pray in it.
Finally, on Saturday March 1, the church was delivered to the Copts to start using it as of the next day.
Upon taking notice, threatening mobs of Muslims gathered around the church. Some skirmishes took place, and finally, as usual, the authorities decided to submit to the mobs’ will, ordering the church shut, yet again, till “the situation improves.”
____________________
Edited from various media sources