Egyptian security source on three detained Israelis in Egypt: 'Matter related to national security'

Egyptian security source spoke for first time about detention of three Israelis from Bedouin diaspora held in Egypt for approximately half year, and said to newspaper 'Independent Arabia' that 'matter related to national security,' without providing additional details about suspicions against them.

Three, Bilal Masoudin El-Walidi, Bilal El-Afsak and Ahmad Aduji, residents of Negev, arrested on March 21 this year while making their way back from southern Sinai toward Taba crossing. According to report, they were asked to get out of van they were traveling in and transferred to vehicle of Egyptian security officials, since which contact with them cut off. One of them managed to tell friend that arrested, and added that if not return, they should know he is 'in hands of Egyptians.'

For months, families preferred not to publicize matter, hoping quiet contacts would lead to release of three. Only in recent days did Foreign Ministry announce it is handling matter and approached Egyptian authorities requesting information about their legal status and place of detention. Mirav Marks, head of Diplomatic and Civil Law Department in Foreign Ministry, said Israel continues to approach Egyptian officials formally, but has not received additional information to date.

Lawyers representing families said information received indicates investigation of security nature and not regular criminal suspicions. Lawyer and former Knesset member Taleb Al-Sana approached Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, and according to report was told that matter is under direct handling.

Egyptian report does not specify what security suspicion against three, and not stated whether indictment filed against them, whether brought before court or where they are held.