10 Feb 2020 | 05:42 PM UTC
Egypt: Militants kill seven soldiers in North Sinai attack February 9
Militants kill seven soldiers in attack on security facilities in North Sinai province on February 9; similar attacks possible in North Sinai province over the near term
Event
Militants killed seven soldiers in an attack on security facilities in North Sinai province on Sunday, February 9. The Egyptian army reportedly repelled the attack, killing ten militants and destroying a militant-operated vehicle.
Similar militant attacks are to be expected in North Sinai province over the near term.
Context
Egyptian security forces are in the middle of a counterterrorism operation named "Sinai 2018" that aims to neutralize militant and terrorist groups operating in the Sinai Peninsula, Nile Delta, and the Western Desert. Egypt frequently conducts raids on suspected militant groups following terrorist attacks. The raids' targets are not typically confirmed by independent reporting and foreign tourists have previously been killed in similar operations.
Advice
Individuals in Egypt are advised to monitor the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, report suspicious behavior and objects to the authorities, and remain vigilant when visiting areas vulnerable to terrorist attacks (e.g. tourist sites, churches, international and government buildings, public transportation hubs, etc.).
