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Egypt’s Travel Restrictions Deepen Burden on Palestinian and Syrian Refugees

Egypt’s travel ban on Palestinians and Syrians exacerbates their hardships, preventing families from reuniting and trapping individuals in instability. Despite fleeing violence in their homelands, new restrictions hinder their ability to access safety in Egypt, perpetuating a cycle of fear and uncertainty among these vulnerable communities.

Egypt’s recent travel restrictions pose significant challenges for Palestinians and Syrians, exacerbating their already precarious situations. Manal, a Palestinian woman living in Egypt, found herself indefinitely barred from reuniting with her family in Cairo following her visit to Libya—a trip she had long dreamed of after over 13 years apart. Despite seeking refuge from violence in Gaza, she now grapples with the inability to see her family, facing continued hardship in Egypt.

The Egyptian government’s new policy prohibits Palestinians from re-entering the country if they were present in several conflict-affected nations, including Libya and Syria. Such measures, which require prior security approval for entry, create an environment of anxiety and uncertainty for communities already enduring a legacy of displacement due to war and instability.

Similarly, the Syrian populace in Egypt, totaling about 1.5 million individuals, is experiencing similar restrictions, with the Egyptian authorities barring entry without specific permits. These rules come amidst a shifting political landscape in Syria and have left many families separated and vulnerable. The tightening grip of immigration policies by Egypt only adds to the fears expressed by individuals like Mohammed, a Syrian father whose return to Egypt was obstructed despite his long-term residence and established life there.

As these communities struggle under the weight of governmental restrictions, their hopes for stability, safety, and reunification remain a distant prospect in the face of deeply entrenched geopolitical tensions.

The ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza and Syria have resulted in massive displacement, leading many Palestinians and Syrians to seek refuge in neighboring countries such as Egypt. However, recent policies imposed by the Egyptian government have created further barriers, preventing these vulnerable groups from returning to safety or reuniting with family members. The restrictions arose amidst significant political shifts and ongoing conflicts, fueling fears and uncertainties within these already marginalized communities seeking stability in the region.

In conclusion, Egypt’s travel restrictions on Palestinians and Syrians are amplifying the immense burdens already borne by these displaced populations. As individuals like Manal and Mohammed navigate their precarious situations, the necessity for policy adjustments that facilitate safe reunification and provide asylum becomes increasingly clear. Without such changes, these affected families will remain in a state of uncertainty and distress, reflecting the urgent need for intervention and support from the international community.

Original Source: www.newarab.com

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