Amid Israel-Palestine Tensions, Egyptian Policeman Shoots at Israeli Tour Group, Leaving Three Dead

In the midst of escalating tensions between Israel and Palestine, especially around the Gaza strip, a shocking incident erupted in Alexandria, Northern Egypt. A lone Egyptian policeman opened fire on a tourist group primarily comprising Israelis.

From the video of the shooting of Israeli tourists in Alexandria

Incident Details:

• Location: Alexandria, particularly at the historic ‘Pillar of the Sesostris’ site.
• Attack: The policeman, assigned to the Mansheya area of Alexandria, indiscriminately fired bullets from his personal weapon at the Israeli tourist group.
• Casualties: The impromptu assault resulted in the death of two Israelis and one Egyptian, with several others injured.
• Aftermath: The assailant was apprehended immediately, and the injured were promptly transported to the nearest medical facility for treatment.

⚡️ attack in Egypt!

It is reported that a police officer responsible for the security of tourist areas opened fire with his personal weapon on a bus carrying Israeli tourists.
in the Manshaya area of ​​Alexandria. pic.twitter.com/oUCJbLbaA2

— Nothing to see (@Wagnersfamily) October 8, 2023

Following the incident, Israel’s foreign ministry promptly reached out to its Egyptian counterpart for clarity and further information about the assailant. Initial requests from Tel Aviv include participation in the investigation alongside the Egyptian side, as well as enhanced security measures for Israeli tourists in Egyptian cities. The emphasis was also placed on bolstering security around the Israeli diplomatic mission.

Furthermore, Egypt recently reiterated the urgency to deescalate the tensions in Palestinian territories and sought a comprehensive and fair solution to the Palestine issue. This appeal followed a telephonic discussion between Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and his U.S. counterpart, Anthony Blinken. The consensus underscored the global community’s priority to realize a two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

“Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry about the attacks and the urgency in achieving an immediate halt to the appalling assault. The Secretary expressed appreciation for the Egyptian leadership’s ongoing efforts.” pic.twitter.com/6MxGhuSQmE

— عزة تركي (@_AzzaTurki_) October 8, 2023

The backdrop to these diplomatic conversations is the recent surprise attacks by Hamas’s armed wing, Al-Qassam Brigades, on various Israeli settlements and cities. These attacks have resulted in the death of hundreds and the capture of numerous Israeli soldiers and civilians. The death toll on the Israeli side has surged to 600, while Gaza mourns over 370, with approximately 2000 wounded.