The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has adjusted the travel advice in response to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. The ministry announced via its website that all travel to North Sinai, close to the border with Israel, is not recommended and that no consular assistance is possible for Belgians in this area. In addition, Egyptian security sources said yesterday that refugees from the Gaza Strip are not welcome in the country: “The two sides must resolve conflicts within their borders.”
Travel to and in North Sinai, near the border with Israel, as well as the border crossing to Gaza in Rafah, are expressly discouraged by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In the area north of the road connecting the cities of Suez and Taba (including the road itself), the security situation is particularly poor with a high risk of violence and terrorist attacks.
There have been several reports of kidnappings, carjackings and roadblocks by armed groups in the border area. The army also conducts military operations in this area against terrorist groups, which is why the Egyptian government strictly prohibits travel in this area.
The use of the border crossing with the Gaza Strip near Rafah is also strongly discouraged as the area is plagued by frequent attacks. The border is regularly closed for a longer period of time without warning and “once in Gaza, the Belgian embassies and consulates cannot provide assistance to Belgians,” the ministry writes on their website.
Cairo, Alexandria and the Mediterranean coast, except North Sinai, are a safe zone, according to the ministry. The coast between Port Sais and Gaza is strongly discouraged.
No refugees from Gaza Strip allowed
Despite talks with the United States about humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip, the government in Cairo rejects any move to admit Palestinian refugees. Egyptian security sources reported this yesterday.
Although Egypt often mediates between Israel and the Palestinians, the country wants the two sides to resolve the conflicts within their borders. According to Cairo, this is the only way the Palestinians can safeguard their right to their own state. For this reason, Egypt has been limiting the influx of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip for years, even during the fiercest conflicts.
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