Egypt Enforces Travel Restrictions Amid Concerns over Military Recruitment

Egypt has implemented travel restrictions for men aged 18-35 to Russia and Ukraine, requiring security approval due to fears of recruitment in the ongoing war. Officials stress national security, referencing historical precedents and economic impacts on tourism and imports. Concerns continue about the involvement of Egyptian nationals in the conflict, prompting protective measures by the government.

In response to concerns regarding military recruitment, Egyptian authorities have imposed new travel restrictions on nationals aged 18 to 35 intending to visit Russia and Ukraine. These regulations require individuals to obtain mandatory approval from the security establishment before traveling to these countries, as officials warn of the potential involvement of Egyptians in the ongoing conflict.

Ibrahim al-Masri, a member of the Egyptian parliament’s Committee on Defence and National Security, emphasized the importance of these regulations for national security. He noted that some Egyptian students may be susceptible to recruitment, transforming them into mercenaries involved in foreign military conflicts, which may later pose security threats upon their return.

The war has adversely affected Egypt’s economy, significantly impacting tourism and agricultural imports. Both Russians and Ukrainians constituted a large portion of tourists to Egypt, and disruptions have resulted in increased costs for agricultural imports, highlighting Egypt’s dependence on these countries for cereals and other goods during the ongoing war.

Concerns have risen following a video released by a Ukrainian journalist, purportedly featuring an Egyptian national who allegedly joined the Russian army after being tempted while incarcerated in Russia. Estimates regarding the number of Egyptians involved in the conflict vary, with some observers suggesting it could range from hundreds to thousands, amplifying worries about their potential recruitment into foreign militaries.

General Mohamed al-Ghabari shared insights, stressing the necessity for awareness among Egyptian youth about the risks associated with traveling and potential recruitment in foreign armies. Following the onset of the war, many Egyptian students returned from Ukraine, but fewer relocated from Russia, where educational opportunities remain economically viable.

Egypt is apprehensive about historical parallels with the past, recalling issues faced after the Soviet-Afghan war when returning fighters posed significant security challenges. Local analysts now fear that some Egyptians involved in the current conflict may present similar threats upon their eventual return.

While maintaining a neutral stance since the inception of the war, Egypt’s close ties with both Russia and Ukraine complicate its position. As it seeks to uphold its foreign relations, Egypt must navigate the complexities arising from its nationals’ potential involvement in foreign military endeavors. The Russian embassy has acknowledged the new travel regulations but did not provide further comment on the recruitment concerns.

Egypt has enacted stricter travel regulations for military-aged men seeking to visit Russia and Ukraine amidst fears of recruitment into the ongoing war. With historical precedents highlighting the risks of returning fighters, the government emphasizes the importance of protecting national security. The economic repercussions of the war further underscore Egypt’s vulnerability, as it grapples with the implications of its citizens potentially engaging in foreign conflicts.

Original Source: www.newarab.com