Egypt Implements New Travel Regulations Amid Security Concerns Over Russia-Ukraine War

Egypt has implemented new travel regulations for citizens traveling to Russia and Ukraine, requiring security approval for those aged 18 to 35. The move stems from concerns of military recruitment amidst the ongoing conflict. Economic impacts from the war affect Egypt’s tourism and agricultural sectors, while security analysts voice concerns about Egyptians potentially joining foreign militaries and the implications for national security.

In response to security concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Egyptian authorities have implemented new travel regulations affecting citizens aged 18 to 35. These regulations require mandatory approval from the security establishment for travel to both countries, aiming to safeguard national security amid fears of military recruitment of Egyptian nationals.

Ibrahim al-Masri, a member of the Egyptian parliament’s Committee on Defence and National Security, emphasized the importance of these regulations, stating that vulnerable Egyptian students might be lured into foreign militaries. He characterized the regulations as timely, highlighting potential future threats posed by individuals who join foreign armies and later return to Egypt.

The war has severely impacted Egypt’s economy, particularly tourism, which relies heavily on visitors from Russia and Ukraine. Previous agricultural imports predominantly sourced from these countries are now affected, resulting in increased costs and the need to seek alternative markets. Moreover, the conflict has raised security concerns, with reports of Egyptians allegedly participating in military actions alongside Russian and Ukrainian armed forces.

Among the notable incidents is a video featuring an Egyptian national captured by Ukrainian forces while reportedly fighting for Russia. This individual recounted being coerced into military service after facing incarceration for illegal work in Russia, offering alarming insights into the recruitment dynamics at play.

Although Egypt lacks precise data on the number of its citizens engaged in the conflict, concerns persist about students studying in Russia possibly seeking economic relief by enlisting in the military. With a significant presence of around 50,000 Egyptians in Russia and a growing number of students, experts warn these individuals may be susceptible to recruitment offers that promise financial incentives.

General Mohamed al-Ghabari, a security analyst, highlighted that Russia’s need for foreign recruits could pose a risk, calling for increased awareness among Egyptian youth regarding the dangers of travel to conflict zones. Meanwhile, Egyptians who previously studied in Ukraine were facilitated in returning home, signaling government efforts to mitigate risks associated with wartime volunteering.

Drawing parallels to past experiences, analysts note that similar issues arose after Egyptian nationals returned from Afghanistan, leading to national security threats as these individuals resumed militant activities post-conflict. The current situation mirrors these historical precedents, with fears that returning fighters from the Syrian conflict may also pose security challenges for Egypt.

Maintaining a non-aligned stance since the conflict began, Egypt is navigating complex relations with both Russia and Ukraine, reliant on imports from both nations. However, the recruitment of Egyptians into foreign militaries complicates this neutrality, leading to new regulations on travel permissions to Russia. A Russian embassy source confirmed compliance with Egypt’s stricter measures for travel, indicating the seriousness of the situation.

In summary, Egypt has instituted new travel regulations for citizens to Russia and Ukraine, primarily targeting the age group of 18 to 35. These measures aim to protect national security amid concerns of military recruitment during the ongoing conflict. The Egyptian economy has suffered due to the war, and heightened vigilance is warranted as some nationals have allegedly engaged in combat for foreign military factions. Historical context suggests the potential for returning fighters to create security challenges for Egypt in the future.

Original Source: www.newarab.com