The Hasam Movement — a militant group behind numerous attacks on Egyptian security forces — has seemingly expanded its list of targets. According to a statement released by the Hasam Movement on Oct. 1, the group set off an improvised explosive device at Myanmar's Embassy in Cairo on Sept. 30 in retaliation for the treatment of Rohingya Muslims by the government of Myanmar. The explosion, initially attributed to a gas leak or some other accidental cause by Egyptian sources, doesn't appear to have injured or killed any security forces, embassy employees or civilian bystanders. But the developments suggest a possible shift in how the group chooses to operate, as well as its future goals.

That the Hasam Movement chose to claim the attack demonstrates a religious, rather than secular, motivation. Up until now, the group has consistently focused its efforts on security forces and other Egyptian government targets. It's meticulously avoided targeting civilians, seeking to minimize collateral damage. The Hasam Movement portrays itself as a nationalist movement attempting to overthrow the government of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, not a transnational one created to stand up for Muslims around the world. The movement's decision to claim the attack on Myanmar's Embassy means the group may be developing jihadist ambitions, and is now trying to attract international publicity and more recruits.

The plight of the Rohingya is a galvanizing issue for Muslims, drawing the attention of foreign governments, international organizations and others, including transnational jihadist groups such as al Qaeda and the Islamic State. By attacking — or even claiming to attack — a foreign target that both al Qaeda and the Islamic State have highlighted as an enemy to Muslims, the Hasam Movement will surely attract attention. Jihadists have tried, but failed, to infiltrate the Rohingya, and have sought to exploit the situation for propaganda purposes.

Even if the Hasam Movement's primary goal is still to overthrow the al-Sisi government, the tactics it employs in pursuit of that goal may be expanding. By attacking a perceived enemy of worldwide Islam, the Hasam Movement will be able to market itself as a defender of the faith. Meanwhile, Myanmar's government installations will remain attractive targets for similar attacks and protests, both peaceful and violent.