Egypt has implemented strict new restrictions on Syrian nationals entering the country, allowing entry only for holders of temporary non-tourist residence permits. According to the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority, airlines that violate the directive will be fined.
It marks the second wave of sanctions since the ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad last month, previously targeting Syrians with European, Gulf, US or Canadian residency as well as Schengen visa holders without security clearance. Syrians married to Egyptians are subject to the same requirements.
According to Ashrak al-Awsat, the recent moves reflect Cairo's heightened focus on security risks, with former assistant interior minister Farouq al-Mokrahi citing concerns about individuals linked to the banned Muslim Brotherhood and other banned groups. Molhem al-Khan of the Syria al-Ghad Relief Foundation added that the lack of security coordination with Syria's interim administration has fueled Egypt's wariness.
Egypt hosts an estimated 1.5 million Syrians, although only 153,000 are registered refugees, according to UNHCR. Many Syrians fled to Egypt after the Syrian civil war began in 2011.
Source: Middle East Monitor