Egypt - tourist bus attacked yesterday

Eygpt has seen more violence yesterday, this time directed against tourists in the South Sinai region.  A tourist bus was attacked yesterday in Taba in South Sinai, close to the Israeli border at Eilat. 

A blast targeted the bus at the Taba border crossing in Egypt's South Sinai governorate and this appears to have killed at least five people, including four South Korean nationals, and left another 28 wounded.

The blast reportedly took place as the bus prepared to cross into Israel from Egypt. This is the latest act of terrorism to impact on Egypt in recent months; however, it is the first attack, however, to directly target tourists in recent years.

Attacks, which are often carried out by Islamist militants and target state facilities and interests, occur most frequently in the North Sinai governorate. There has, however, been an increase in militant activity, ranging from low-level acts of targeted violence to higher casualty attacks, elsewhere in the country since the military takeover of the Islamist-dominated government in July 2013.

Given the ongoing political instability in the country, further acts of terrorism are likely. The most probable targets include state interests and facilities, religious sites (particularly Coptic Christian), as well as Western interests and tourist sights.

From 1 February 14 for approximately 2 months there will be several anniversaries in Egypt which are expected to prompt protests, some of which could turn violent.

Protests, marches and demonstrations are common across Egypt. Demonstrations often happen on Fridays, but can occur at any time and with little prior notice. The atmosphere at demonstrations can change quickly and without warning. Police may use water cannon, tear gas, birdshot or live ammunition for crowd control.

RPS advises that If you become aware of any nearby protests, leave the area immediately. Don’t attempt to cross road blocks erected by the security forces or protesters. Make sure you keep valid photographic identification with you at all times. Take particular care in areas with a history of regular protests.

At protests on 24 and 25 January westerners, including British Nationals, were singled out and attacked by some protestors. 

RPS advises travellers to fly from Eygpt to Israel in the coming months, due to the event yesterday.

If you need any information on travel to Egypt, please contact [email protected]

Adapted from Red24 and FCO travel advice with thanks

Photo: RPS Cairo