In a sign of increasing lawlessness in the Sinai, Egyptian media outlets have reported that approximately 70 armed Bedouins have stormed a popular Sinai resort village and are holding its employees hostage.
The hostage-takers are demanding four million Egyptian Liras (over $650,000) for the employees’ release.
Bedouin leaders recently expressed dismay at the exclusion of Bedouin in the formation of a new Egyptian government. “We will not allow a parliament without Bedouin representation,” said one Bedouin leader in a meeting last week.
“We have declared war against the military and will not wait for them to kill us all,” declared another Bedouin leader.