The Egyptian government has deployed a significant number of soldiers and police nationwide to secure balloting for presidential elections on Monday, May 26th and Tuesday, May 27th. While there are no known specific threats, there is a possibility that some may try to disrupt the voting process with acts of violence. Due to the possibility of violence, as well as potential disruptions to travel, including traffic congestion, due to election activity, U.S. citizens are advised to limit their movements on the 26th and 27th to the immediate areas of their residences, carefully weigh the necessity of movements beyond their residences, and closely monitor local news outlets for information on current developments when deciding whether to move about the city.
As a matter of general practice, U.S. citizens should avoid areas where large gatherings may occur. Even demonstrations or events intended to be peaceful can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into violence. U.S. citizens in Egypt are urged to monitor local news reports and to plan their activities accordingly.
The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens to review their personal security plans and remain alert to their surroundings at all times in Egypt. For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Internet website where the Worldwide Caution, Country Specific Information for Egypt, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts, can be found. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook.