Egypt has restricted travel for military-aged men to Russia and Ukraine due to concerns about recruitment for the ongoing conflict. Mandatory security approvals are now required for travel, amid worries that young Egyptians may be lured into fighting. This decision comes as the war adversely affects Egypt’s economy and tourism, provoking significant national security considerations.

Egyptian authorities have implemented new travel regulations for nationals aged between 18 and 35 who wish to travel to Russia and Ukraine. This decision is aimed at preventing potential recruitment of young Egyptian men into the military forces of the two countries, amidst ongoing concerns over their involvement in the conflict. The new regulations mandate security establishment approval for travel to these nations, reflecting caution among lawmakers and security experts regarding national security risks.

Ibrahim al-Masri, a member of the Egyptian parliament’s Committee on Defence and National Security, emphasized the importance of these regulations, stating that they are crucial for safeguarding Egypt’s national security. He indicated that some Egyptian students may be vulnerable to recruitment as mercenaries, turning into potential threats upon returning home after their involvement in foreign militaries.

The war has significantly affected Egypt’s economy, particularly the tourism sector which has historically relied on a substantial influx of Russian and Ukrainian tourists. Egypt also depended heavily on these nations for agricultural imports, especially cereals. The conflict’s impact on agricultural costs and tourism inflows has compounded economic strains, compelling Egypt to seek alternative import sources and recoup losses from these pivotal markets.

Concerns over recruitment intensified following a video published by a Ukrainian journalist, featuring an Egyptian national allegedly captured while fighting alongside Russian forces. The individual claimed he signed a contract to join the Russian army in exchange for his release from jail, where he was held for illegal work to fund his education. Estimates of Egyptians actively engaged in the conflict remain unclear, but reports suggest the number could reach into the hundreds or thousands.

In 2022, approximately 50,000 Egyptians lived and studied across Russia, with enrollment in Russian academic institutions significantly increasing in recent years. Egyptian security analysts fear these students are susceptible to recruitment, particularly given financial challenges in funding their studies. General Mohamed al-Ghabari underscored the need for awareness campaigns to educate the youth regarding recruitment dangers abroad.

Egypt’s historical context plays a role in current concerns, as the influence of returning fighters from prior conflicts remains relevant. The government is determined to maintain a neutral stance in the ongoing war, balancing relationships with both Russia and Ukraine while managing national security. Egyptian students previously evacuated from Ukraine have been facilitated to transfer to local universities, while the situation remains more complex for those in Russia, where educational opportunities persist despite the ongoing conflict.

With the Russian embassy in Cairo acknowledging the new travel regulations without further comment, it is evident that the plight of Egyptian nationals amid this conflict continues to be a pertinent issue for Egypt’s leadership. The state prioritizes measures to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, particularly against the backdrop of previous experiences with returning fighters from conflict zones.

In summary, Egypt has introduced stringent travel regulations for military-aged men traveling to Russia and Ukraine to guard against their potential recruitment in the ongoing conflict. This decision reflects broader concerns regarding national security, economic impacts from the war, and the historical precedent of returning combatants. By enforcing these regulations, Egyptian authorities aim to protect their citizens and maintain stability within the country, all while navigating complex international relationships.

Original Source: www.newarab.com

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