President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Republic and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, called on Egyptians to protect their country’s national identity, collective memory and stability, warning that disinformation campaigns and attempts to distort historical facts pose a serious threat to the state’s future.
Addressing the 44th Educational Seminar, titled “Homeland of Heroes”, held at the Al-Safwa International Conference Centre at the Egyptian Military Academy in the New Capital, President Sisi marked the 53rd anniversary of the October Victories by stressing that preserving the state remains the foremost national responsibility.
“Fortify your country against this conspiracy; I do not say fortify the president,” he said, urging citizens to remain vigilant against attempts to undermine public awareness and weaken national cohesion.
The president drew parallels between the challenges of 1973 and 2013, recalling Egypt’s efforts to defend its national identity and preserve its institutions, according to Presidency Spokesperson Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy.
El-Shennawy added that the president stressed that economic reform and development require perseverance, adding that “the national duty today remains the same: to work”.
He warned that social media had intensified psychological warfare and the spread of misleading narratives, emphasising that national memory was the country’s first line of defence.
President Sisi recalled Egypt’s prolonged confrontation with terrorism, which he said had cost the state more than LE 120 billion, alongside significant human sacrifices, ultimately restoring security and stability.
He called for co-ordinated efforts across state institutions and society to counter misinformation, warning that renewed turmoil comparable to 2011 could threaten the country’s very survival.
Reflecting on the political developments preceding 2013, the president highlighted his earlier consultations with political groups and presidential candidates while serving as Director of Military Intelligence.
He reiterated that the continuity of state institutions must take precedence over political interests, noting that the Egyptian people’s will and capacity remain central to overcoming national challenges.
He also reaffirmed the importance of constitutional legitimacy and cautioned against attempts to manipulate public opinion, stressing that safeguarding Egypt requires awareness, responsibility, hard work and patience.
Addressing regional affairs, President Sisi responded to recent Israeli statements concerning Sinai, affirming that Egypt fought to defend its territory and fully restored its land.
He stressed that Egypt has no hostile designs against any country and remains committed to the peace treaty with Israel and to protecting its borders and national security.
On Palestine, the president reiterated Egypt’s support for the two-state solution, describing it as the viable path towards a just and lasting peace through the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel.
He also affirmed Egypt’s commitment to de-escalating regional tensions, securing maritime navigation and supporting stability in the Gulf, emphasising that the security of Gulf states forms an integral part of Egypt’s national security.
The seminar featured Qur’anic recitation, documentary films, musical performances, presentations on Egyptian diplomacy during the 1973 war and the influence of social media, and tributes to October War heroes.
At the conclusion, President Sisi honoured a number of veterans and met with decorated heroes for a commemorative photograph.
Concluding his remarks, the president appealed to Egyptians of all generations to stand united in defending their homeland, declaring: “Take care of Egypt; take care of your country.”
