Palestinians, visa-free

A lifting of red-tape at the Cairo International Airport has, for a day at least, eased Palestinian suffering. Can Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi make this visa-free policy permanent?

Early yesterday morning, seven Palestinians were allowed entry into Egypt through Cairo International Airport. Nothing too special, you might think. But these seven were allowed in without the usual security clearances and visas, making it the first time in years that Palestinians had been allowed visa-free entry into Egypt.

While there has been no official announcement regarding a policy change, airport officials (anonymously) have said that Palestinians will be allowed entry into Egypt without the obligatory red tape. There is the possibility that this is a one-time deal, but we hope not. For Palestinians, especially those caught in Israel's stifling blockade of Gaza, unfair travel restrictions have been a regular part of life. Until recently, Egypt was a complicit partner in that unjust state of affairs.

During his first few weeks in office, President Mohammed Morsi has already shown - tentative - signs of realigning that policy. An elected leader, after all, should reflect the will of Egypt's citizens, who are overwhelmingly in favour of fraternal relations with Palestinians. If Mr Morsi hears these voices, he will make this visa-free policy permanent.

Because of uncertainties regarding his own powers, and the delicacy of relations with the US and Israel, Mr Morsi will tread carefully. For the time being, however, this new government has done well, for seven Palestinians at least.