Egypt Imposes New Travel Regulations Amid Security Concerns Over Conflict in Russia and Ukraine
Egypt has established new travel regulations for citizens aged 18 to 35 heading to Russia and Ukraine, requiring approval from security authorities. The rules aim to prevent recruitment into foreign militaries amid the ongoing conflict, which poses risks to national security and has economic implications for the country. Lawmakers express concern over potential military involvement among Egyptian nationals, given past historical contexts.
In response to concerns over military involvement, Egyptian authorities have instituted new travel regulations for its citizens aged 18 to 35 wishing to visit Russia and Ukraine. These regulations mandate security approval prior to any travel, aiming to deter potential recruitment of Egyptians into the armed forces of the conflicting nations that are currently engaged in a war resulting in significant casualties.
Lawmakers and security analysts emphasize the importance of these precautions, noting the risks of Egyptian students becoming involved in foreign military forces. Ibrahim al-Masri, a member of the Committee on Defence and National Security, emphasized, “The new regulations are important for the protection of Egypt’s national security… Some Egyptian students become prey for temptations, which quickly turns them into mercenaries involved in proxy wars.”
The ongoing conflict significantly impacts the Egyptian economy, particularly since Russian and Ukrainian tourists represent a substantial portion of visitors to Egypt. Furthermore, Egypt has traditionally depended on these countries for agricultural imports, with the war leading to increased costs and challenges in sourcing alternative supply markets.
Reports have surfaced of Egyptians being recruited in the conflict. A video featuring an Egyptian national captured on the battlefield highlighted the dangerous temptations some face, such as offers of citizenship in exchange for military service. Although there are no official estimates, observers speculate that hundreds or potentially thousands of Egyptians may be fighting alongside foreign forces due to financial difficulties.
In 2022, approximately 50,000 Egyptians were living, studying, or working in Russia, a significant increase in the student population compared to prior years. Security experts warn of the risks associated with these individuals potentially joining the Russian army, as the country is offering incentives to attract foreign recruits. Security analyst Gen. Mohamed al-Ghabari urged for heightened awareness about the dangers of such recruitment.
While Egypt previously facilitated the repatriation of students from Ukraine during the war’s onset, many Egyptian students in Russia opted to remain, considering the universities affordable. Local analysts express concern that those involved in the conflict may pose future security threats upon their return.
Historically, Egypt has encountered challenges after wars regarding returning nationals, specifically recalling the predicament following the Soviet-Afghan conflict. The government now faces similar risks with veterans of the Syrian civil war returning and potentially impacting national security further.
Amid the ongoing situation, Egypt seeks to maintain a neutral stance, avoiding commitment to either Russia or Ukraine despite its deep ties with both nations. The Egyptian government has issued stricter travel regulations, which include enhanced scrutiny by security authorities. “…new regulations to the travel of Egyptians to Russia… include more stringent measures for the issuance by Egyptian authorities of travel permissions to Russia,” confirmed an embassy source, noting the complexities surrounding any military casualties involving dual nationals.
Egypt’s implementation of stringent travel regulations for its citizens traveling to Russia and Ukraine is a proactive measure aimed at safeguarding national security amid growing concerns of military recruitment. The conflict’s substantial economic impact on Egypt, particularly regarding tourism and agricultural imports, exacerbates the need for careful monitoring of citizens in potentially perilous situations. Given the historical precedents and current challenges posed by returning combatants, Egypt’s balanced diplomatic approach remains crucial, as does its efforts to protect its youth from the lure of foreign military enlistment.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
