Details are still emerging of a disturbing episode in Cairo. Last week, 45 elderly Israeli Jews of Egyptian origin were due to arrive for a four-day trip to the old country. But reports spread through the local media that the group were going to try and reclaim their ancestor’s property - and so the Egyptian authorities, apparently with the “support” of the local Jewish community, cancelled the trip.

All very murky. But, as Ami Isseroff notes, there is a pressing need for clarity from the Marriott Hotel chain, which promptly cancelled the reservations made for the group at their hotel in Cairo. Says Ami:

“This sort of thing is to be expected of our peaceful Egyptian neighbors, but international hotel chains should be operating by different standards. It is sad that in the twenty-first century any person cannot get lodging because of their race, creed or ethnic origin.

As far as I know, Marriott Hotels have not bothered to explain, comment, apologize, or offer to pay damages. They are making believe it has nothing to do with them.”

Ami has some suggestions for response, too.