Egypt News

A submarine carrying 45 tourists sank off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, resulting in the deaths of six Russian nationals. According to the Red Sea governor, Maj Gen Amr Hanafi, 39 people were rescued, with four admitted to intensive care. The incident, involving a recreational submarine operated by Sindbad Submarines, occurred less than a mile offshore during an underwater excursion to observe coral reefs. Reports indicate that the submersible "crashed" at approximately 10 am local time while navigating near the area’s famed reefs, raising concerns about safety standards in the region. The local governor confirmed that the submarine was licensed and had a qualified crew. Previous incidents have highlighted ongoing safety issues, including a fatal dive boat accident in November 2024. Russia's Tass news agency cited the consul in Hurghada, revealing that among the deceased were at least two children. Despite confusion surrounding the passengers' nationalities, officials confirmed that all aboard were primarily Russian tourists. The Egyptian tourism industry, crucial for the country's economy, has faced numerous challenges in recent years.

At least six foreign tourists have died and nine others were injured, four severely, after a tourist submarine sank off the coast of Hurgada, Egypt, according to local media reports. The incident occurred on Thursday when the submarine, which had 44 passengers on board, was engaged in an excursion to view the area's renowned coral reefs. Images released by the Egyptian newspaper Al-Masry Al-Youm showed the yellow submarine belonging to Sindbad, a company operating in the region for several years. The vessel typically dives to a depth of 22 meters to allow tourists to observe coral and exotic fish. The cause of the sinking remains unknown. Hurgada is a major tourist destination in Egypt, attracting visitors from Europe drawn to the Red Sea beaches. Despite its popularity for diving excursions, the safety records of vessels in the area have faced scrutiny. A previous incident on November 25, 2024, involved the sinking of another diving vessel, resulting in 11 fatalities and multiple missing persons. A maritime survey conducted from 2023 to 2024 identified numerous safety deficiencies among diving and safari boats operating in Egypt.

Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) announced the remarkable discovery of a military leader's tomb dating back to the era of King Ramses III during an excavation at Tell Roud Iskander. This site, historically significant as a military stronghold, has revealed a main burial chamber, three adjoining rooms, and a trove of funerary relics, including jewelry and alabaster vessels, according to SCA Head Mohamed Abdel-Badie. The tomb, constructed from mudbrick and featuring white plastered walls, contained a human skeleton encased in layers of cartonnage, indicating its use over time. Although the identity of the officer remains unknown, historians speculate he may have links to King Horemheb, based on cartouches found within the burial site. In addition to the main tomb, the excavation unveiled mass graves and individual tombs from the Greco-Roman and Late Roman periods, containing amulets and skeletal remains. According to SCA Secretary-General Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Tell Roud played a pivotal role in defending Egypt's eastern borders during the New Kingdom. The ongoing research promises to further illuminate Egypt's ancient military history.

Researchers led by Filippo Biondi from the University of Strathclyde and Corrado Malanga from the University of Pisa claim to have discovered a "vast underground city" beneath Egypt's Giza pyramids. Using Synthetic Aperture Radar technology, they identified eight vertical cylindrical artifacts extending over 2,100 feet underground, along with other unidentified structures located 4,000 feet below the surface, as reported by GB News. The study, part of the Khafre Project, suggests the presence of multiple room-like structures inside the pyramids and possible connections to underground corridors. It also posits that the so-called Halls of Amenti may contain a legendary Hall of Records beneath the Great Sphinx. However, these claims have been met with skepticism. Zahi Hawass, Egypt's former minister of antiquities, dismissed the findings as "fake news," stating that the research techniques were unproven and lacked evidence of large subterranean architectures after decades of investigation. Radar specialist Professor Lawrence Conyers echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while the site could harbor smaller constructions, the announced findings are likely exaggerated. Further examination by independent scholars is necessary.

Archaeologists have unveiled the tomb of Thutmose II in Egypt's Valley of the Kings, marking the first discovery of an Egyptian pharaoh's tomb in over a century. British archaeologist Dr. Piers Litherland led the discovery, which he deemed highly significant, likening it to findings associated with Tutankhamun in 1922, according to the BBC World Service. The excavation team initially believed the tomb belonged to a royal wife but later identified it as belonging to Thutmose II, who ruled from 1493 to 1479 BC. While exploring, Litherland recognized the burial chamber's ceiling adorned with blue and yellow stars, which led to the remarkable find. Following flood debris clearance, the team discovered that the tomb had been emptied deliberately, indicating the king’s remains were relocated shortly after burial. The Royal mummy was likely moved to another undisclosed location, raising the prospect of a second intact tomb, as stated by Mohsen Kamel, the assistant field director. This discovery provides new insights into early 18th Dynasty kings and the mystery surrounding their burial places.

A joint British-Egyptian mission has unearthed the tomb of Pharaoh Thutmose II, marking the first significant royal tomb discovery in Egypt since Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922. Located approximately 1.5 miles west of the Valley of the Kings in Luxor's western mountain region, this find is considered a "remarkable discovery" by Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. Objects recovered from the tomb include alabaster jar fragments inscribed with Thutmose II's name, alongside inscriptions related to his wife, Queen Hatshepsut, a notable female monarch. For the first time, funeral furniture belonging to Thutmose II was identified, as no such artifacts associated with him exist in any museum worldwide. Piers Litherland, the mission's leader, stated this discovery answers a longstanding question about the whereabouts of the early 18th dynasty kings' tombs. Thutmose II, who ruled from approximately 1493 to 1479 BCE, is believed to have died around 3,500 years ago. Initial investigations suggest that flooding after his death may have caused the relocation of his burial contents to another tomb.

Egypt has announced the discovery of the ancient tomb of King Thutmose II, marking the first major royal burial site found since King Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922. Officials from Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities stated that an international team of archaeologists confirmed the tomb's location on February 18, 2025, near Luxor, in the Valley of the Kings. Thutmose II, who ruled approximately 3,500 years ago, had previously been a lesser focus of Egyptology compared to his famous relatives. Archaeologists believe that while the tomb had suffered significant flooding, leading to the loss of many original artifacts, some key finds remain. These include alabaster vase fragments inscribed with Thutmose II's name and references to his burial status, highlighting the involvement of Queen Hatshepsut, his half-sister and wife, in the burial process. The archaeological team will continue excavating the site, aiming to uncover more about Thutmose II's reign and the circumstances surrounding the relocation of his remains, which were previously found in the Deir el-Bahari Cachette in the 19th century.

Egyptian officials announced the discovery of what may be the tomb of Pharaoh Thutmosis II, believed to be located near the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. This finding marks the first potential identification of a tomb belonging to a prominent pharaoh in over 100 years. Thutmosis II, who was the husband and half-brother of the famed Queen Hatshepsut, was notably depicted in the Karnak temple complex north of Luxor. According to the Egyptian Antiquities Ministry, the discovery was made by an Egyptian-British research team, making it a significant archaeological event that draws parallels to the 1922 discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb by British archaeologist Howard Carter. That excavation sparked a Western fascination with ancient Egypt, known as Egyptomania, which has persisted since. This newly identified tomb is believed to be the last verified royal burial site from the 18th Dynasty, a period marking the beginning of the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt. The search for more artifacts and information about this era continues as archaeologists explore the site further.

A nearly complete skull of a new species of hyaenodonta, named Bastetodon syrtos, was discovered by paleontologists in the Fayum Depression of Egypt's Western Desert. According to the study published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, the fossil, dating back approximately 30 million years to the early Oligocene Epoch, provides critical insights into the evolutionary history of these ancient carnivores, which were apex predators of their time. Lead author Shorouq Al-Ashqar of Mansoura University described the moment of discovery in 2020 as extraordinary, noting the skull's unique traits, including a shorter snout and sharp, knifelike teeth that would have given this leopard-sized creature a formidable bite. The research suggests that Bastetodon preyed on primates and early ancestors of elephants and hippos in a lush, tropical environment of that era. Dr. Matthew Borths, a co-author of the study, emphasized the rarity of such complete specimens, which allow for a better understanding of ancient predator dynamics and provide insights into climate change and faunal turnover affecting species survival.

Egyptian President Abdelfatah al-Sisi has announced he will not attend any meeting with President Trump if the U.S. leader continues to push for the deportation of Palestinians from Gaza. This stance aligns with Jordanian King Abdullah II, who also expressed firm opposition to the plan during a recent meeting with Trump. Both leaders are under pressure from the American administration's diplomatic strategy aimed at relocating Gaza residents to their countries, a proposal that threatens their significant U.S. financial aid, with Egypt receiving approximately $1.5 billion annually. In response, Egypt is prepared to host an Arab League emergency summit at the end of February to discuss Trump’s plan and the reconstruction of Gaza, which has suffered devastating humanitarian impacts, leaving over 48,000 dead according to recent estimates. Hamas has welcomed the positions taken by both leaders, expressing gratitude for their rejection of forced displacement and support for Gaza’s rebuilding without uprooting its inhabitants. Meanwhile, tensions remain high as the ongoing ceasefire is at risk due to escalating demands from the Trump administration regarding hostage negotiations with Hamas.

Egypt has announced that it will hold an emergency Arab summit in Cairo on February 27, 2025, to discuss the "latest and serious developments" regarding the Palestinian issue. This decision follows U.S. President Donald Trump's recent proposal to take over the Gaza Strip and resettle its Palestinian residents in other countries, which has sparked widespread international condemnation. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry stated that the summit aims to address concerns raised by Trump's plan, which many view as an attempt to displace hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza. During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump claimed that the region could transform into "the Riviera of the Middle East," further fueling outrage among Arab nations, including Egypt, which signed a peace treaty with Israel in 1979. Egypt played a crucial role in brokering a ceasefire in the recent Gaza conflict between Israel and Hamas, indicating its ongoing interest in resolving the crisis. The upcoming summit seeks to unify Arab leaders against what they perceive as an unjust settlement proposal.

Egypt has criticized recent statements from Israeli officials suggesting the establishment of a Palestinian state in Saudi Arabia, labeling the idea as "irresponsible." The foreign ministry stated that such remarks represent a "direct infringement of Saudi sovereignty" and emphasized that Saudi security is a "red line" for Egypt. This response follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's comments and former U.S. President Donald Trump's proposal to resettle Palestinians, allowing the U.S. to "own Gaza" and develop it as a tourist destination. Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty reported that he has communicated with neighboring Arab nations, including Jordan and Saudi Arabia, to unify their stance against any displacement of Palestinians. He reiterated the Arab position, which firmly rejects measures aimed at relocating Palestinians outside their territories, as illegal and detrimental to regional stability. The ongoing Israel-Hamas war has resulted in significant destruction in Gaza, with over 47,000 reported deaths since the conflict intensified in October 2023, following a Hamas attack that killed approximately 1,200 Israelis. Efforts are currently focused on rebuilding Gaza rather than resettling its inhabitants.

In a strong joint statement, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, the Palestinian Authority, and the Arab League have dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion to relocate the Palestinian population from Gaza to neighboring countries. This response follows Trump's assertion that he would encourage leaders in Egypt and Jordan to accept displaced individuals from Gaza, which currently faces severe devastation due to ongoing conflict. The Arab nations warned that such plans pose threats to regional stability and risk exacerbating existing tensions, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution based on the two-state solution. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi and Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi both reinforced their staunch opposition to the idea, citing concerns over the economic implications and potential loss of Palestinian identity. The Arab leaders emphasized the importance of international support to implement a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza, seeking to ensure that Palestinians can remain on their land, as articulated in their collective statement after a meeting of top diplomats in Cairo.

Arab nations have collectively dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump's suggestion to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan. In a joint statement released on February 1, 2025, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, the Palestinian Authority, and the Arab League emphasized their opposition to any plans that would force Palestinians out of their territories in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, according to officials present at a meeting in Cairo. Trump's controversial idea aims to address the humanitarian crisis following a devastating 15-month war with Hamas, suggesting that the relocation of Gaza's approximately 2.3 million residents could be either temporary or permanent. However, the Arab statement warned that such actions threaten regional stability and the peace process, urging international support for a reconstruction plan that allows Palestinians to remain on their land. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi and Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi have both reiterated their firm opposition to the proposal, stressing that it undermines the prospect of a two-state solution and would exacerbate existing economic and security concerns in their countries.

Hundreds of protesters gathered at the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's suggestion that Palestinian refugees from Gaza should be relocated to Egypt and Jordan. Trump stated, “We do a lot for them, and they’re going to do it,” referring to the expected cooperation of both countries. In reaction to the proposal, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi asserted that displacing the Palestinian people constitutes an "injustice" Egypt cannot accept. He emphasized that such a move would provoke widespread dissent among the Egyptian populace, stating, "If I were to ask this of the Egyptian people, all of them would take to the streets to say 'no.'" Public protests in Egypt have been largely restricted since 2013, with only government-approved gatherings allowed. The Rafah crossing is a critical route for humanitarian aid to Gaza and is set to reopen this weekend for limited medical evacuations, as announced by a Hamas official. The World Health Organization has highlighted the extensive health needs arising from the conflict in Gaza, calling for urgent medical assistance.

Hamas officials have accused Israel of delaying vital humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, which they claim is essential to fulfill the terms of a recent ceasefire agreement. The accusations, reported on January 29, 2025, cite a failure to deliver key items, including fuel, tents, and heavy machinery, which were supposed to enter Gaza during the first week of the ceasefire that commenced on January 19. Two anonymous Hamas officials expressed concerns that continued delays could jeopardize the release of hostages, with one official stating, “We warn that continued delays and failure to address these points will affect the natural progression of the agreement, including the prisoner exchange.” The group has requested the intervention of mediators to address these issues. Despite the ongoing volatility, three hostages are scheduled to be released on Thursday, with an additional three set for release on Saturday. The ceasefire aims to last for 42 days, during which time seven Israeli hostages have been released in exchange for the liberation of 290 prisoners, primarily Palestinians. The situation remains tense as Hamas emphasizes the need for adherence to the humanitarian aspects of the ceasefire to ensure the continuation of negotiations and the safety of the hostages.

On January 25, 2025, seventy Palestinian prisoners were transported from Israel's Ktziot prison in the Negev desert to Egypt as part of a ceasefire agreement related to the ongoing Gaza conflict. The transfer occurred after the release of four Israeli hostages by Hamas militants in Gaza. According to state-linked Egyptian media, these prisoners will be subjected to medical treatment in Egyptian hospitals. This group's release is part of a broader arrangement involving the release of a total of 200 prisoners. The prisoners include individuals who have been serving life sentences for serious offenses against Israelis and, upon their release, will be permanently expelled from Palestinian territories. Footage showed prisoners disembarking in grey tracksuits at the Rafah border crossing. Amin Shuman, head of the Palestinian prisoners' affairs committee, stated that after their stay in Egypt, the prisoners will be given the option to relocate to Algeria, Turkey, or Tunisia. One released prisoner expressed joy, describing the moment as "indescribable" while waving from the bus window.

Seventy Palestinian prisoners were transported from the Ktziot prison in Israel to Egypt on January 25, 2025, as part of a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. This release comes after the exchange of four Israeli hostages held by Hamas militants in Gaza. According to state-linked media in Egypt, the released prisoners are being referred to as those "deported" by Israel and will receive medical treatment in Egyptian hospitals. The larger agreement includes the release of over 230 Palestinian prisoners, many of whom are serving life sentences for attacks against Israelis. Upon their release, these individuals will be permanently expelled from Palestinian territories. Footage showed the prisoners arriving at the Rafah border crossing into Egypt dressed in grey tracksuits and expressing their relief and joy. After arriving in Egypt, the released prisoners will have the option to relocate to Algeria, Turkey, or Tunisia. Amin Shuman, head of the Palestinian prisoners’ affairs committee, confirmed this arrangement. One of the released individuals described the experience as "indescribable," expressing happiness as they waved to onlookers from the bus. This development marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict and underscores the complex dynamics at play in the region.

Egypt's Suez Canal, a vital artery for global trade, is facing a significant crisis due to ongoing attacks by Houthi rebels from Yemen. Since November 2023, approximately 250 assaults on ships navigating the canal have been reported, severely disrupting maritime traffic as the rebels aim to influence international pressure on Israel regarding its operations in Gaza. Traffic through the canal has plummeted dramatically, falling from an average of 72 vessels per day in mid-December 2023 to just 27 ships by the month's end, carrying only a quarter of the usual cargo. This alarming decline has resulted in an estimated loss of $7 billion in revenue for Egypt in 2024, as confirmed by the country's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty. The Suez Canal Authority Chairman, Osama Rabie, indicated that more than 6,500 ships have altered their routes in response to the recent security concerns. The Egyptian government is grappling with a current account deficit exceeding $20 billion, intensified by dwindling canal revenues and a large trade deficit. Despite these challenges, Egyptian authorities remain optimistic about the canal's strategic importance and are considering further expansions to ensure its competitiveness once disruptions end. The Suez Canal has a long history of crises, but officials believe that no alternative route can match its efficiency and strategic location between Asia and Europe.

In compliance with the recently established ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, Egypt has sent 330 trucks loaded with humanitarian supplies to Gaza. The trucks were staged at the Rafah border crossing, connecting Egypt to the Gaza Strip, on January 19, 2025. However, due to Israeli inspection requirements and the destruction within Gaza, these trucks are making lengthy detours through Israel before entering the Palestinian enclave. Among the dispatched cargo, which includes 20 trucks carrying fuel, deliveries will initially pass through the Al Auga crossing for inspections by Israeli authorities. The situation remains complicated, as the Rafah terminal has sustained significant damage and is currently unfit for direct humanitarian entry. Tamara Alrifai, a spokesperson for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, has indicated that there are no immediate plans to open Rafah for humanitarian cargo due to its current state. It is anticipated that during this ceasefire phase, approximately 600 trucks of humanitarian aid daily may enter Gaza, of which 200 are expected from Egypt. Despite the logistical challenges, there is a shared sense of hope among truck drivers who have been waiting to deliver their cargo. Many express their desire to assist the suffering population in Gaza, with some acknowledging the delays introduced by Israeli controls. The agreement also allows for the transportation of injured or sick Palestinian civilians out of Gaza for medical treatment, although as of late Sunday, no civilians had yet crossed through Rafah.

Egypt's Suez Canal, a pivotal trade route, is facing a severe crisis due to a spate of attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Since late 2023, approximately 250 maritime assaults have disrupted traffic, leading to a dramatic decline in ship passage. Previously accommodating an average of 72 vessels daily, the canal saw this number plummet to just 27 by the end of December 2023, resulting in a cargo reduction of nearly 75%. As a consequence, revenue from the canal has reportedly dropped by about 60%, causing an estimated loss of $7 billion for Egypt in 2024. The minister of foreign affairs confirmed the dire implications for public finances, pointing to a current account deficit exceeding $20 billion, worsened by the Suez Canal revenue decline. Despite looking to the past for solutions, as the canal has weathered numerous crises since its opening over 150 years ago, authorities maintain a confident outlook for future expansions. They argue that the canal's strategic significance between Asia and Europe cannot be replicated, and plans are underway for further enhancements to ensure operational efficiency once current disruptions cease.

The Suez Canal, a vital trade route for global shipping, faces a significant crisis due to recurrent attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Since late 2023, the canal has seen approximately 250 assaults on passing ships, aimed at pressuring the international community regarding Israel's military actions in Gaza. This disruption has drastically reduced ship traffic; only 27 vessels passed through the canal by the end of December 2023, down from an average of 72, severely impacting cargo volume. Egypt's Foreign Minister has reported a remarkable 60% decline in Suez Canal revenues, leading to an estimated loss of $7 billion in 2024. As a result, more than 6,500 vessels have changed their routes, opting instead to navigate around Africa. This decline comes at a time when Egypt is grappling with its own economic challenges, including a current account deficit exceeding $20 billion. Despite these setbacks, Egyptian authorities remain optimistic, contending that the canal's strategic position between Asia and Europe will ensure its eventual recovery. Plans for further enhancements to the canal are already under consideration to accommodate larger ships and improve efficiency once normal traffic resumes.

Archaeologists working near Luxor, Egypt, have announced significant discoveries of rock-cut tombs and burial shafts believed to date back up to 3,600 years. The findings were made along the causeway of Queen Hatshepsut’s funerary temple on the west bank of the Nile River, and include artifacts that could reshape current understanding of ancient Egyptian life and practices. The Zahi Hawass Foundation for Antiquities & Heritage reports that the excavation began in September 2022, in collaboration with Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities. Among the artifacts uncovered are bronze coins, funerary masks, winged scarabs, and clay children’s toys. Additionally, archaeologists found pottery tables that were likely used for ceremonial offerings, linking the tomb's occupants to military activities during that time. The tombs discovered are believed to belong to individuals from the Middle Kingdom, with some artifacts tracing back to the 17th dynasty. One notable tomb belonged to Djehuti-Mes, an overseer of Queen Teti Sheri’s palace, although it had been largely emptied over the centuries. Alongside these discoveries, parts of the Assassif Ptolemaic Necropolis were found, which contain tombs built over the remnants of Hatshepsut’s temple. This adds to previous findings, including 11 sealed burials located in a Middle Kingdom tomb announced in November 2024. These ongoing archaeological efforts near Luxor continue to reveal important insights into Egypt’s ancient civilization.

In a terrifying ordeal, Lucianna Galetta and 34 other survivors were trapped for 35 hours in a dark air pocket of the Sea Story, an Egyptian dive boat that sank in the Red Sea on November 25. Galetta's recount of her experience illustrates the chaos and fear aboard the vessel, which capsized after reportedly being struck by a large wave, a claim disputed by multiple survivors and experts. The Sea Story was carrying 31 international guests and 12 crew members on a six-day diving trip when it capsized in rough seas. Despite mechanical and human error being cited as potential causes for the tragedy, Egyptian authorities initially attributed the sinking to a wave that some survivor accounts have called into question. Survivors described a frantic escape as the boat rolled sharply in the night. Many were thrown from their beds, while others battled against floating debris to find exits. Sarah Martin, an NHS doctor, remembered the disorientation caused by plunging into total darkness. Many had difficulty locating life jackets, and safety equipment—including life rafts—were found lacking in supplies and functionality. As rescue efforts were delayed for hours, Galetta and her partner were eventually located by divers after spending more than a day in an air pocket. The sinking has drawn attention to the safety measures aboard similar vessels and raised questions about the response time from Egyptian authorities, with survivors suggesting that slow action may have cost lives. Despite the desperate circumstances, Galetta stressed the need for answers and accountability, noting the tragedy's lasting impact on the victims’ families and the diving community. An investigation is ongoing, but the precise causes behind the Sea Story’s disastrous end remain under scrutiny.

Archaeologists have unearthed several ancient tombs and burial artifacts near Luxor, Egypt, that date back up to 3,600 years, potentially reshaping current understandings of ancient Egyptian history. The discoveries were made along the west bank of the Nile River, specifically near the site of Queen Hatshepsut’s funerary temple, by the Zahi Hawass Foundation for Antiquities & Heritage. The excavation, which has been ongoing since September 2022 in collaboration with Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, revealed rock-cut tombs, burial shafts, and parts of a temple, along with a wealth of artifacts. Among these findings are bronze coins, funerary masks, amulets, and even children's toys made from clay. Pottery tables used for offerings and military equipment were also found, suggesting a rich cultural and historical context for the area around 1500 B.C. One notable tomb belonged to Djehuti-Mes, an overseer associated with Queen Teti Sheri’s palace, although it had been largely stripped of artifacts over time. Additionally, remnants of Queen Hatshepsut’s Valley Temple indicate that the rock-cut tombs date back to the Middle Kingdom. This discovery adds to a recent finding of 11 sealed burials from a Middle Kingdom tomb near Luxor, which included skeletons of multiple generations, further highlighting the archaeological significance of this region. Experts believe that these findings could provide critical insights into the social practices and daily life of ancient Egyptians, signaling a historic moment for archaeology in Egypt.

The Suez Canal, a vital artery for global trade, is facing a severe crisis as a result of ongoing attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Since late 2023, the Houthis have executed approximately 250 strikes on maritime vessels transiting through the canal, severely disrupting shipping traffic. This has stemmed from their efforts to influence international stance on the Gaza conflict. The impacts of these disruptions are significant. Traffic through the canal dropped sharply from an average of 72 ships daily, carrying 4.4 million tonnes of cargo in mid-December 2023, to just 27 vessels by the end of that month. Consequently, many ships have opted to reroute around Africa, further exacerbating Egypt's financial strain. According to Egyptian officials, including Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, revenue from the Suez Canal has plummeted by around 60%, with the state losing an estimated $7 billion in 2024 alone. More than 6,500 vessels have since altered their routes in response to the ongoing situation. The Suez Canal has faced challenges throughout its 150-year history, including the infamous blockage by the mega-ship Ever Given in 2021. Current disruptions coincide with Egypt's dire economic outlook, marked by a current account deficit exceeding $20 billion. Despite these challenges, Egyptian authorities remain optimistic, insisting that the canal's strategic position remains unparalleled and that expansion plans are underway. They are evaluating another upgrade to the canal, originally completed in 2021, to increase capacity and efficiency once the current issues are resolved.

The Suez Canal, a critical trade route for global maritime traffic, is facing a severe slowdown due to escalating attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Since November 2023, the Houthis have launched around 250 attacks on vessels in the canal, aiming to influence international actions regarding military operations in Gaza. The impact has been felt dramatically; daily ship crossings dropped from an average of 72 to just 27 by the end of December 2023, reducing cargo traffic from 4.4 million tonnes to approximately 1 million tonnes. The situation has financial ramifications for Egypt, with officials confirming a drastic 60% decline in revenue from the canal, equating to an estimated loss of $7 billion in 2024. Over 6,500 ships have redirected their routes, opting to navigate around Africa instead. Egypt's Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, stated that the nation's current account deficit has exceeded $20 billion, exacerbated by these reduced canal revenues. Despite these challenges, Egyptian authorities remain optimistic, asserting that the canal’s strategic importance between Asia and Europe cannot be easily replaced. Plans for further expansions of the canal are in development, signifying an intent to boost operations once the current disruptions cease. The Suez Canal has a storied history of resilience, having faced multiple crises over its 150-year existence, including a significant blockade during the Six-Day War in 1967.

In a harrowing incident off the coast of Marsa Alam, Egypt, a 69-year-old retired dentist from Italy, Peppino Fappani, survived a fierce shark attack while attempting to rescue another snorkeler. The attack occurred on December 29, when Fappani rushed into the waters after witnessing Di Gioia, a 48-year-old EU diplomat, struggling in distress. Fappani described how he jabbed the shark in the eyes multiple times to fend it off, ultimately enduring serious injuries himself. Despite his bravery, Di Gioia was attacked and later succumbed to his injuries. Fappani insisted that they were swimming within the designated safe area, despite recent installations of anti-shark nets that were not in the immediate vicinity. Egyptian authorities are currently investigating the incident, which is part of a concerning trend with several fatal shark encounters in the region over recent years. While Fappani is now recovering from his injuries, he expressed sorrow over the loss of his fellow snorkeler. Mr. Fappani’s ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present even in designated swimming areas, particularly in regions known for frequent shark sightings.

A 4,100-year-old tomb belonging to a physician who reportedly treated pharaohs has been unearthed at the ancient site of Saqqara in Egypt. The Swiss-French archaeological team, which made the discovery, identified the doctor as Tetinebefou, based on inscriptions found within the tomb. Despite evidence of previous plundering, researchers were able to analyze wall paintings and hieroglyphics detailing Tetinebefou’s medical expertise. Tetinebefou held various notable titles, including "conjurer of the goddess Serqet," a deity linked with scorpions, indicating his specialization in treating poisonous bites. He also held the title of "director of medicinal plants" and was identified as the "chief dentist," a rare designation in the context of ancient Egypt. The tomb features vibrant wall paintings illustrating jars and other objects likely related to medical treatments, and reflects Tetinebefou’s stature as a leading physician of his time. While no human remains were found, the ongoing excavation may shed further light on his life and contributions. The specific pharaohs he served are yet to be determined, however, it is speculated that they may include Pepi II or his successors. Research and analysis of the site will continue as archaeologists work to uncover more about this remarkable find.