` In an essay as part of his application for the study-abroad program in Jordan , Andrew ... reflected on his hopes to develop 'life-long ties ... with Arab-speaking friends , ' `` the college said in a statement . Egypt : Egyptian state media say he was filming the protests . Israel : " He was watching protests in Alexandria when he was arrested . The 21-year - old went to Egypt this year after spending time in Morocco . Family : He planned to stay in the Middle East ` ` in the pursuit of peace and understanding ''
Egypt : Egyptian state media say he was filming the protests . Israel : " He was watching protests in Alexandria when he was arrested . The 21-year - old went to Egypt this year after spending time in Morocco . Family : He planned to stay in the Middle East ` ` in the pursuit of peace and understanding ''