Egypt has implemented stringent new restrictions on Syrian nationals entering the country, allowing entry only for those holding temporary non-tourist residency permits. Airlines violating the directive face fines, according to the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority.

This marks the second wave of restrictions since former president Bashar al-Assad’s ouster last month, with an earlier ban targeting Syrians holding European, Gulf, US, or Canadian residencies, as well as Schengen visa holders, unless they secure prior security approval. Syrians married to Egyptians are also subject to the same requirements.

According to Asharq Al-Awsat, the latest measures reflect Cairo’s heightened focus on security risks, with former Assistant Interior Minister Farouk Al-Moqrahy citing concerns about individuals linked to the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood and other banned groups. Molhem Al-Khan of the Syria Al-Ghad Relief Foundation added that the lack of security coordination with Syria’s interim administration has fueled Egypt’s precautions.

Egypt hosts an estimated 1.5 million Syrians, though only 153,000 are registered refugees, according to UNHCR. Many Syrians fled to Egypt following Syria’s civil war, which erupted in 2011.