The recent, much-publicized physical abuse of women in Egypt, resulting in a great many instances of gang rapes, is itself a worrisome development that should concern women planning a touristic visit to Egypt.  But far worse are the recent excuses for such attacks by members of the political party that now holds power in Egypt.  In an astonishing recent article in The New York Times, prominent members of the political party headed by Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi, have been quoted as attributing such attacks to the participation in political protests by Egyptian women.  They blame the women who have been raped for not staying safely at home.

The Times quoted Reda Saleh Al al-Hefnawi, a legislator member of the Muslim Brotherhood, as saying "How do they [women] ask the Ministry of Interior to protect a woman when she stands among men?"

As long as such viewpoints are common in Egypt, and are not vigorously opposed by other members of the current Egyptian government led by the Muslim Brotherhood, there seems a clear answer to the question of whether western women should visit Egypt.  Though one or two members of the leading party, including one of its rare woman members, have spoken out in protest, the prevailing silence by most others in that party serves as a major reason to warn women against Egyptian tourism.  Perhaps in solidarity with these outrageous viewpoints blaming women for the attacks they have sustained, the Egyptian police have been largely inactive in protecting women against rape by crowds of men congregating for political meetings.

Several months ago, I reported with great sorrow my own increasing realization that Egypt was not currently safe for tourism.  My judgment on that matter has now been confirmed by uncontradicted news reports.  If there is anyone among our readers who has contrary evidence, I'd very much appreciate hearing from them.