Canada has temporarily closed its embassy in Cairo, citing “security concerns,” following a similar move by the UK, which shut its diplomatic mission in the Egyptian capital a day earlier.
The decision comes amid speculation about a possible link to a recent video featuring a man identified as a Canadian militant. In the video, he calls for attacks on Canada, referencing incidents such as the killing of Canadian soldiers and the October attack on Parliament in Ottawa.
The video, released Sunday, is believed to feature John Maguire, a Canadian convert to Islam who joined the Islamic State (IS) in Syria in 2013. He appears under the alias Abu Anwar al-Canadi, urging Muslims to replicate recent attacks in Canada.
Canada, a member of the international coalition combating IS, has been conducting airstrikes and supporting Iraqi security forces in their fight against the militant group. Public Safety Minister Steven Blaney stressed the need for vigilance, reaffirming Canada’s commitment to the coalition’s efforts.
A statement on the Canadian embassy’s website noted that consular services could be temporarily limited due to “unsettled security conditions.” Further details about the closure were not provided.
The UK Foreign Office confirmed its embassy closure, citing ongoing security fears.
Egypt has faced a surge in militant activity, particularly in the Sinai Peninsula, where groups such as Ansar Beit al-Maqdis, now aligned with IS, have intensified attacks on military and police targets following the ousting of President Mohammed Morsi in 2013.
The situation underscores growing security challenges in the region, as both countries navigate threats posed by militant groups.
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