A Blog by the Editor of The Middle East Journal

Putting Middle Eastern Events in Cultural and Historical Context

Thursday, July 16, 2015

Islamic State's "Sinai Province" Claims Credit for Setting Egyptian Naval Vessel Afire


An Egyptian Naval patrol boat has been set afire after being hit by an apparent missile in the Mediterranean off the coast of Sinai. The Islamic State's affiliated "Sinai Province" (wilayat Sina') has claimed responsibility. See reports here, here, and here. Official reports said the crew were evacuated by other vessels without casualties.

The attack comes as Egypt announced it had completed dredging of the new channel in the Suez Canal and prepares for its grand opening, adding to fears of a possible attack on the Canal.. It also came as the Interior Ministry fired the Director of Security for Cairo Government, apparently due to recent attacks and bombings in the capital.
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