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Egypt says investigation continues into Damietta Port fire caused by suspected drone

July 31, 2026 at 11:30 am

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. [MICHELE SPATARI/AFP/Getty Images]

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said on Thursday that authorities are continuing to investigate the fire that broke out aboard two ships at Damietta Port, after preliminary findings indicated it was caused by an unidentified drone.

Chairing a cabinet meeting, Madbouly said the government was taking the necessary measures to safeguard Egypt’s national security and interests, while emphasizing that operations at the port have continued without disruption.

According to a government statement, the prime minister briefed ministers on the latest developments, saying preliminary investigations by the relevant authorities indicated that the fire was caused by a drone. He added that investigations remain ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

Madbouly said port operations remain stable, with vessel arrivals and departures proceeding as scheduled. Loading and unloading activities, as well as the handling of containers, general cargo, and dry and liquid bulk shipments, are continuing according to operational plans, he said, adding that electricity services at the port have not been affected.

The government statement said the ministers concerned reviewed efforts to contain the fire and restore normal operations, stressing that coordination between ministries and relevant agencies remains ongoing to address the aftermath of the incident.

Egyptian authorities have not publicly identified those responsible for the reported drone attack, and no group has claimed responsibility. The investigation remains ongoing.

READ: Yemen’s Houthis deny drone attack on gas vessels at Egypt’s Damietta Port