Egypt: Increased security likely in El-Qantara district through mid-May following militant attack on army personnel

Event

Heightened security is likely in Ismailia Governorate's El-Qantara district, as well as in North Sinai Governorate, through at least mid-May following an attack by suspected militants, which left at least 11 Egyptian soldiers dead and five others wounded. The soldiers exchanged fire with the assailants during an attack on a water-pumping facility. Additional details about the attack remain unclear; however, Egyptian security forces are reportedly pursuing the militants in the Sinai region. No group has as yet claimed responsibility for the incident.

Security forces will almost certainly deploy additional personnel to the affected locations, as well as establish roadblocks throughout El-Qantara and surrounding areas as part of their efforts to apprehend the attackers. Localized ground travel disruptions are likely.

Context

Islamic State (IS) poses a serious nationwide threat in Egypt. The militant group regularly clashes with security forces in the North Sinai region, where the government has been leading a low-level counterinsurgency campaign since 2011. Despite the military's efforts, IS' Wilayat Sinai branch remains one of the group's most active affiliates in North Africa and will likely remain a potent force for the foreseeable future. While the capabilities of IS affiliates have been degraded in North Sinai from their peak in previous years, IS fighters continue to launch weekly attacks targeting security forces, religious minorities, and civilians.

Advice

Exercise caution if operating in El-Qantara district and surrounding areas east of the Suez Canal. Keep away from locations where security forces appear to be deploying. Heed the instructions of local authorities.