Egypt: Authorities attribute deadly Dec. 28 Giza bus blast to improvised bomb /update 2

Event

Egyptian authorities released a statement confirming that an improvised explosive device (IED) was responsible for an explosion targeting a tourist bus in Giza at approximately 18:15 (local time) on Friday, December 28. The bomb was reportedly hidden along Marioutiya Street in Giza's Al-Haram neighborhood, approximately 4 km (2.5 mi) from the Pyramids of Giza. At least two tourists were killed in the attack and 12 other people, including the bus driver, were wounded. An investigation into the incident is ongoing; heightened security activity is reported in the area and localized transportation disruptions are likely.

Context

Terrorist groups have previously targeted tourists across Egypt, including the 1997 Luxor massacre, 2005 Sharm El-Sheikh attacks, 2015 Metrojet bombing, and stabbing attacks at resort beaches in 2016 and 2017.

Advice

Individuals in Giza are advised to monitor local reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, and anticipate a heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions near the incident area. More broadly, individuals in Egypt are advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious objects or activities to authorities.