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US Embassy Cairo warns Americans of potential attacks

April 3, 2026 | | Print Article

Americans traveling to Egypt were warned of potential attacks related to U.S. military operations in Iran in a security alert issued by the U.S. Embassy in Cairo.

“U.S. Embassy Cairo advises U.S. citizens to closely monitor the news for regional developments related to military operations in Iran,” the security alert said. “U.S. citizens should exercise caution and remain aware of their surroundings.”

“Due to high tensions in the region, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly,” the embassy said, before noting that it is open and operating normally.

“The State Department’s Travel Advisory for Egypt remains unchanged at Level 2 ‘Exercise Increased Caution,’ with ‘Do Not Travel’ guidance for the Northern and Middle Sinai as well as parts of the Western Desert,” the alert advised. “Airline travelers may experience outbound flight cancellations or delays depending on airspace status of destinations. Egyptian authorities generally offer effective security protection. However, extremists and Iranian-aligned actors have expressed interest in planning and carrying out attacks in the region.”

The embassy also recommended Americans carrying at least $175 cash per person for visas and exit fees at the Taba border crossing, in the Sinai area.

“If you plan to travel outside the Sinai area, including transit to Cairo, you must obtain a 30-day visa on arrival at the Taba land crossing for $30 USD (cash only) plus $20 or $25 USD (cash only) for a letter of guarantee issued by an authorized travel agent,” the embassy said. “This visa permits travelers to enter the Sinai area and also to board flights departing from Sharm El-Sheikh and transiting through Cairo International Airport, as well as travel elsewhere in Egypt.”

“The $120 USD border crossing exit fee would also apply,” the alert continued. “U.S. Embassy Cairo recommends carrying at least $175 USD cash per person for visas, Egyptian letter of guarantee, and exit fees, plus extra for unexpected costs. ATMs at the crossing are unreliable.

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As seen below, Egypt was the only Middle Eastern country tagged under “Level 2 ‘Exercise Increased Caution.’” Multiple countries are listed under “Do Not Travel” or “Reconsider Travel.”

Interestingly, Egypt is seen by some as the safest Muslim-majority country in the Middle East — here’s a quick sampling of responses to the story, as seen on X:

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Tom Tillison
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