Egypt: Heightened security likely in Sinai Peninsula through October

Event

Heightened security is likely in the North Sinai and South Sinai governorates through at least the end of October in response to escalating hostilities in the Gaza Strip. Egyptian officials are likely to focus on the shared border with Gaza, particularly near the Rafah Border Crossing, to prevent militant infiltration and to manage any future displacement of civilians from Gaza into Egypt.

Additional security force deployments and checkpoints are likely near Egyptian government interests, transport hubs, tourist sites, shared borders, and major routes. Officials could impose movement restrictive measures in response to developments. The status of the Rafah Border Crossing and other crossings, including Taba, is likely to remain fluid. The Rafah crossing was closed early Oct. 11. Conflict spillover, including rocket or gunfire, from Gaza into Egypt is possible over the near term. Any spillover is likely to impact the immediate border area only. Demonstrations by Palestinians in the Sinai area may occur. These are likely near crossings or Egyptian government buildings. Demonstrators could protest the conflict, the status of border crossings, or Egyptian policy vis-a-vis Gaza and Hamas.

Context

Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, particularly the northern Sinai, has been affected by a low-level Islamist militant insurgency for several years. Attacks are periodically reported against a range of targets. Any instability in the region due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza could motivate Egyptian-based groups to increase attacks.

Advice

Consider avoiding nonessential travel to locations near the Egypt-Gaza border. Keep away from locations where security forces appear to be deploying. Heed the instructions of local authorities. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Avoid all demonstrations.