By A violent incident at a luxury hotel in the Egyptian border town of Taba has left at least six people injured, according to local and international reports. The altercation, which took place at the five-star Movenpick Resort, reportedly stemmed from a dispute over an unpaid bill by tourists.
Initial reports from various news sources present slightly conflicting information about the nationalities of those involved. Reuters reported that three Israelis and two Egyptians were among the injured, while Sky News stated that three Egyptian workers were hurt. The discrepancy in reported numbers and nationalities highlights the initial confusion surrounding the incident.
Egypt’s state-affiliated Al-Qahera News reported that the violence erupted after tourists failed to pay their hotel bill, triggering a confrontation that escalated into physical violence. The news outlet stated that all individuals involved in the incident have been transported to local hospitals for treatment, while police have launched an investigation into the matter.
In response to the outbreak of violence, Egyptian authorities have reportedly deployed troops to the area to support local police efforts. The incident’s proximity to the Israeli border has raised concerns, prompting Israel’s National Blood and Medical Emergency Service, Magen David Adom, to position ambulances at the border crossing in preparation for any potential need to treat Israeli citizens.
Despite the involvement of Israeli nationals in the incident, a high-ranking Egyptian source has denied claims that Israelis were specifically targeted. The source emphasized that the altercation was not directed “against their citizens,” suggesting it was a isolated dispute rather than a targeted attack.
The injuries sustained in the incident are reported to include head injuries and stab wounds, indicating the severity of the confrontation. The exact circumstances leading to the escalation of violence from a billing dispute to a mass stabbing remain under investigation.
Taba, situated on the Gulf of Aqaba, is a popular resort town known for its beaches and proximity to Israel, making it a frequent destination for international tourists. The Movenpick Resort, where the incident occurred, is one of the area’s premier accommodations, catering to high-end travelers and adding to the shock of such a violent outbreak at the establishment.
Source: express.co.uk
