A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck northwest of Suez, Egypt, in the early hours of Monday, sending tremors across several countries in the Middle East and eastern Mediterranean, according to preliminary seismic data.

The earthquake occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. local time. Preliminary information cited by Russia's Al-Youm newspaper indicated that the epicenter was located about 26 kilometers northwest of Suez and roughly 120 kilometers south-southeast of Port Said.

Residents in several parts of Egypt reported feeling the quake, with journalists in both Egypt and the Gaza Strip saying the tremors lasted for several minutes and were strong enough to awaken many people.

The earthquake was also felt in neighboring countries, including Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Saudi Arabia and Cyprus, as well as in the occupied Palestinian territories, highlighting the wide reach of the seismic activity across the region.

Authorities in the affected countries continued to monitor the situation following the quake. As of Monday morning, there were no immediate reports of fatalities, injuries or significant structural damage.

Emergency and civil defense authorities have not issued any major alerts, while seismologists are expected to continue assessing the event and monitor for any possible aftershocks. (ILKHA)