DHAKA: An Egyptian judge has quashed a government decision to hand back two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia.

Egypt’s President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi announced the return of Tiran and Sanafir islands in April, during a visit by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman.

More than 150 people were jailed in connection with protests at the deal, though many were later acquitted or had their sentences reduced on appeal.

Tuesday’s verdict is not final and could be overturned by a higher court.

Tiran and Sanafir are uninhabited islands, situated at the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba.

President Sisi’s decision in April to cede control of them sparked widespread unrest and criticism. He was forced to defend the move, saying the islands had always belonged to Saudi Arabia.

On Tuesday, Egypt’s State Council, an administrative court which oversees lawsuits filed against the government, quashed Sisi’s decision by issuing a verdict annulling a maritime borders agreement.

BDST: 1641 HRS, JUN 21, 2016
BD