By Sarah Saad
Reflecting on the monumental events that unfolded forty-two years ago, namely the completion of liberating Sinai from the Israelis, Colonel Helmy Zaki, a distinguished veteran of the October 6, 1973 War, offers a profound perspective on the significance of the historical event, which is marked annually on April 25.
Colonel Zaki also pays homage to the unyielding commitment of the Egyptian Armed Forces, whose unwavering resolve led to the triumphant reclaiming of the cherished part of the homeland.
As Egyptians mark the great Sinai Liberation Day and embrace promises of a new era for Sinai, Colonel Zaki emphasises the region’s profound symbolism, enriched by the sacrifices of courageous martyrs. With the dear occasion, comes the opportunity for revitalised development and investment, breathing new life into the hallowed “land of Fayrouz (turquoise).”
The liberation of Sinai completed on April 25, 1982, marked a pivotal moment in history. Fifteen remarkable individuals from various echelons of the Egyptian military, their valor forged in the crucible of conflict, stood as beacons of courage. Their symbolic declaration of Sinai’s liberation, except for the Taba enclave, affirmed Egypt’s rightful sovereignty over its entire territory, an verdict later substantiated through international arbitration.
Colonel Zaki offers a firsthand account of his role within the Egyptian delegation tasked with negotiating the restoration of Sinai.
On April 23, 1982, guided by representatives from the Foreign Ministry, the delegation embarked on a poignant journey to engage with Israeli counterparts.
Following meticulous preparations, the Egyptian delegation, accompanied by esteemed media personnel and proud bearers of the Egyptian flag, embarked on a highly significant journey.
Upon arrival, an atmosphere of solemn anticipation enveloped them, setting the stage for a silent, yet profoundly, impactful exchange.
Colonel Zaki vividly recalls the gravity-laden encounter with the Israeli delegation, characterised by a shared reverence for the momentous occasion. Eschewing the trappings of conflict or political discourse, dialogue yielded to a profound acknowledgment of the solemnity of the meeting.
The zenith of the historic encounter was the ceremonial raising of the Egyptian flag, a poignant symbol of national resurgence and territorial reclamation.
Colonel Zaki recounts the emotional crescendo as the flag ascended, echoing the rhythm of his beating heart, culminating in tears of pride and triumph that shone in his eyes. In stark contrast, Zaki interpreted the tears of the Israeli counterparts as a poignant reflection of defeat and humiliation.
With the triumphant conclusion of the ceremony, the Egyptian flag now stood as a proud sentinel over Sinai, an enduring testament to the resilience and indomitable spirit of the great Egyptian people.
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