Three Negev Bedouins Detained in Egypt for Six Months

Three Israeli Bedouin citizens from the Negev have been held in Egypt for approximately six months under unclear circumstances. The men, identified as Bilal Masoudin Al-Walidi, Bilal Al-Afshak, and Ahmed Al-Dugi, were detained at the Taba crossing while returning to Israel from a tourist trip, according to Channel Kan. Their families reported that the three traveled to Egypt in March and maintained contact with relatives until shortly before their detention, after which all communication ceased.

Families received a message from Cairo indicating that the detention was not for criminal reasons but was related to Egyptian national security concerns. They have been unable to contact the detainees or have their lawyer visit them. Information regarding whether the men have appeared before a judge is also unavailable, and no consular visit from an Israeli representative has occurred.

The detainees' lawyer has submitted requests to Egyptian authorities to ascertain their location, but no response has been received. Searches have not located them in known police stations, prisons, hospitals, or other official facilities. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed awareness of the case and is working on it, while Egypt has not issued an official statement.

Tal Al-Sana, the lawyer representing the families, stated that initial attempts to engage the Foreign Ministry's emergency department for Israeli tourists abroad were unsuccessful, prompting direct appeals to Foreign Minister Gidon Sa'ar and the Prime Minister. He added that companions of the three men in Sharm El Sheikh confirmed their arrest by Egyptian security forces after being taken from their hotel, suggesting they are likely held in Egyptian prisons. The lawyer expressed confidence in the Egyptian judiciary and called for permission for lawyers to meet the detainees and ensure their well-being.