President Abdel Fattah El Sisi addressed the nation on Saturday to mark the 44th anniversary of Sinai Liberation Day. In his speech, he reflected on the historical significance of the liberation, analysed the current state of the Middle East, and reiterated Egypt’s commitment to national stability and regional diplomacy.
President El Sisi emphasised that the liberation of Sinai was not merely the recovery of territory, but a definitive declaration of Egyptian sovereignty.
“This pivotal moment in history was not merely the recovery of occupied land, but a lasting affirmation that Egypt does not relinquish a single grain of its soil and does not accept compromise over its rights,” the President stated. He honoured the armed forces, police, and the late President Mohamed Anwar El-Sadat, recognising the latter as a leader of foresight in the pursuit of regional peace.
He characterised Sinai as the nation’s fortified gateway, forged by the “blood of martyrs and the resilience of heroes,” and reaffirmed the armed forces’ continued role as the “shield and sword” of the nation.
Navigating a volatile Middle East
The President described the Middle East as currently facing “delicate and decisive circumstances,” characterised by orchestrated attempts to redraw the region’s map based on extremist ideological claims.
Rejecting the cycle of occupation and destruction, El Sisi advocated for a future built on reconstruction, cooperation, and peace. He asserted that political solutions and negotiations are the only path to spare the region from further bloodshed. Furthermore, he emphasised Egypt’s categorical rejection of any violation of the sovereignty of fellow Arab nations, affirming Cairo’s full support for their territorial integrity.
President El Sisi noted that the battle Egyptians once fought with weapons has transitioned into a battle for construction and development. Despite facing significant global and regional hurdles over the past decade, he stated that Egypt has maintained its stability.
El Sisi acknowledged the economic burdens placed upon the Egyptian people, assuring that the government is working at full capacity to mitigate these impacts.
Unwavering stance on the Palestinian Cause
Reiterating Egypt’s unwavering stance on the Palestinian cause, the President highlighted several priorities, such as the need to fully implement the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid, and commence reconstruction efforts.
He called for putting an end to attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank, reaffirming Cairo’s categorical rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians.
President El Sisi concluded by reaffirming that Egypt’s preference for peace stems from strength and wisdom. He expressed confidence that the Egyptian people, through hard work and determination, would continue to overcome challenges, ensuring the country remains an “oasis of security and stability” in a turbulent region.
