Egypt Implements Travel Restrictions for Military-Aged Nationals to Ukraine and Russia
Egypt has implemented new travel restrictions for men aged 18-35 to Ukraine and Russia to prevent recruitment into military conflicts. The decision follows warnings about the risks to national security posed by Egyptians participating in the war. Economic ramifications are also significant, as the conflict affects tourism and agricultural imports, underscoring the complex interplay of security and economic challenges for Egypt.
Egyptian authorities have instituted new travel regulations for citizens aged 18 to 35, predominantly identified as being in military age, with respect to travel to Ukraine and Russia. This decision arises from concerns regarding potential recruitment of Egyptian nationals within the ongoing conflict in these countries. The new protocol requires mandatory approval from security establishments before any travel can be undertaken to the two nations.
Lawmakers and security experts have voiced their apprehensions regarding the possibility of Egyptians being lured into foreign militaries during the ongoing war, which has already resulted in significant casualties. Ibrahim al-Masri, a member of the Egyptian parliament’s Committee on Defence and National Security, emphasized the importance of these regulations for safeguarding national security, claiming they are timely and necessary to deter young Egyptians from becoming mercenaries.
Furthermore, the war has adversely impacted Egypt’s economy, notably affecting its tourism and agricultural sectors. A considerable number of tourists previously came from Russia and Ukraine, and the conflict has forced Egypt to seek alternative markets for its agricultural imports, adversely affecting food prices. The ramifications of the war extend beyond economics to potential security threats, as reports suggest that some Egyptians are actively fighting alongside both Russian and Ukrainian forces.
Concerns intensified after a video surfaced, featuring an Egyptian national purportedly taken prisoner while fighting for the Russian army. In the video, he disclosed that he was imprisoned in Russia for illegal work and was subsequently tempted to join the military in exchange for freedom and citizenship. While the exact number of Egyptians in the conflict remains unknown, it is feared that hundreds or even thousands may find themselves caught in this predicament due to financial hardships in affording their education abroad.
General Mohamed al-Ghabari, a security expert, underscored the benefits advertised by Russia for foreign recruits, suggesting that earnest awareness campaigns are necessary to inform Egyptian youth of the risks associated with travel and military recruitment. After the war began in 2022, many Egyptian students returned from Ukraine, helped by government initiatives; however, few returned from Russia, indicating varying responses to the ongoing crisis.
The issue of returning fighters remains a significant security concern for Egypt, reminiscent of past conflicts when militant returnees posed challenges for national safety. The government has been working to manage the situation, applying strict measures to prevent former fighters from re-engaging in jihadist activities after returning.
In this broader context, Egypt strives to maintain a non-aligned stance, balancing its relations with both Ukraine and Russia while addressing the delicate security implications of its nationals’ involvement in the ongoing conflict. The war continues to influence dynamics both economically and socially within Egypt, necessitating vigilance from the authorities to protect national interests.
In summary, Egypt’s new regulations on travel to Russia and Ukraine for military-age males aim to prevent their recruitment into foreign militaries amid growing security concerns. The impacts of the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war extend beyond recruitment threats to economic challenges affecting tourism and agriculture. As Egypt navigates its relationships with both nations, the authorities must remain vigilant in ensuring national security while balancing foreign relations.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
