Egypt has implemented new travel regulations requiring security approval for citizens aged 18-35 wishing to travel to Russia and Ukraine. The regulations stem from concerns about the potential recruitment of Egyptians in the ongoing war, which has implications for national security. The war has significantly impacted Egypt’s economy, particularly its tourism and agricultural sectors, and raises concerns about nationals fighting alongside both armies.
The Egyptian government has recently introduced new travel regulations for its citizens wishing to visit Russia and Ukraine, particularly targeting individuals aged 18 to 35. These regulations mandate that travelers obtain prior approval from the security establishment, aimed at mitigating the risks associated with potential military recruitment amid the ongoing conflict in these countries. Lawmakers and security experts have raised concerns over the recruitment of young Egyptians into foreign militaries, citing the severe consequences of involvement in the protracted war that has claimed numerous lives.
Ibrahim al-Masri, a member of the Committee on Defence and National Security in the Egyptian parliament, emphasized the importance of these regulations for national security. He remarked, “Some Egyptian students become prey for temptations, which quickly turns them into mercenaries involved in proxy wars,” highlighting the urgency of the new measures. He noted that individuals recruited into foreign military forces might return to Egypt and pose a security threat.
The ongoing war has severely impacted the Egyptian economy and the tourism sector, traditionally reliant on Russian and Ukrainian visitors. Moreover, significant disruptions to agricultural imports from these countries have forced Egypt to seek alternative sources for essential commodities, thus increasing costs. Concurrently, there remains a concern regarding Egyptians participating in the conflict, as reports indicate some nationals are fighting alongside both Russian and Ukrainian forces.
The heightened alert within the Egyptian government aligns with alarming reports of individuals becoming involved in the conflict. A Ukrainian journalist recently shared a video interview with an Egyptian national who claimed to have been coerced into fighting for the Russian army after facing economic difficulties. While concrete figures regarding Egyptians fighting in the war remain elusive, estimates suggest that the number could range from hundreds to thousands.
In the wake of the conflict, approximately 50,000 Egyptians were living, working, and studying in Russia in 2022, a figure exemplified by an increasing number of students enrolling in Russian academic institutions. Security experts, including Gen. Mohamed al-Ghabari, cautioned about the vulnerability of these students to recruitment, particularly given the economic challenges they face. Gen. al-Ghabari advocated for greater awareness among youth regarding the implications of travel and recruitment into foreign armies.
Historically, Egypt has grappled with the impact of returning fighters, notably after the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. The challenges of individuals returning home after participating in such conflicts provided a background for new regulations that Egypt is attempting to implement now to prevent a similar scenario. With a history of managing returnees from conflicts, Egypt has experienced the negative consequences of unregulated participation in foreign wars.
Despite Egypt’s aim to maintain neutrality during the current conflict, it remains in a precarious position, balancing relationships with both Russia and Ukraine. The intricate ties include economic dependencies on agricultural imports and military alliances. Recent reports of Egyptians seeking to join the military abroad have necessitated the establishment of stricter travel regulations, emphasizing the importance of addressing national security concerns in the context of global conflicts.
The Russian embassy in Cairo has acknowledged the implementation of stricter travel regulations; however, comments on Egyptian nationals joining the Russian army have not been forthcoming. Nevertheless, the embassy confirmed that these new measures aim to provide thorough regulations on travel permissions to Russia, reflecting an increasing awareness of national security risks among Egyptian citizens.
In conclusion, Egypt’s recent travel regulations for its citizens to Russia and Ukraine are a proactive measure designed to safeguard national security amid the complexities introduced by the ongoing war. The government is responding to fears of recruitment of young Egyptians into foreign militaries, which could create security challenges upon their return. With historical precedents informing current strategies, these regulations aim to prevent past mistakes associated with the return of participants in foreign conflicts, while balancing the nation’s diplomatic ties with both warring countries.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
