Brits have been issued updated travel advice if they expect to visit Egypt or Morocco in the wake of serious events in the Middle East this weekend.

Situation Overview

Egypt and Morocco have gained popularity in recent years as holiday destinations boasting great value resorts and scorching weather. But the government has updated the travel advice for those travelling to either nation this year after an attack by Iran on Israel last week.

Impact of Recent Events

Egypt and Morocco were not included in the strike, but travel advice has been updated on the gov.uk website for both countries. The Foreign Office stated: "On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram."

Travel Restrictions in Egypt

Egypt, which borders Israel by land, has several warnings attached to travel to and within the country. The government advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum. Additionally, British travellers are advised to stay away from North Sinai, South Sinai, the Hala'ib Triangle, the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal, and certain regions in the Western Desert.

Heightened Security Measures

The authorities in Egypt have a significant security presence across the country, including armed security officers at important sites, critical infrastructure, and road checkpoints. Extra measures are in place at tourist sites. There is a heightened threat of terrorism in and around religious sites and during religious festivals, such as Ramadan and the Christmas period. Terrorist attacks have occurred over local holiday weekends.

Warning for Morocco

British travellers have also been issued a warning about travelling to Morocco, emphasizing the threat of kidnapping by terrorist groups near the border and remote desert areas. British nationals engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism, or business sectors are viewed as legitimate targets. If kidnapped, the reason for one's presence is unlikely to serve as protection or secure safe release.