President: Iran escalation risks regional stability
President Abdel Fattah El Sisi conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Egyptian Military Academy in the New Administrative Capital at dawn on Friday, delivering a wide-ranIranging address that linked domestic institutional reform to shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Accompanied by the Academy’s Director, Lieutenant General Ashraf Zaher, the President commenced his visit by performing the Fajr prayer with cadets. Following the prayer, he observed intensive physical fitness drills, including cycling, equestrian displays, and cross-country exercises, underscoring the physical discipline central to the institution’s ethos.
Presidential Spokesman, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said President Sisi, in a keynote speech delivered before the morning lineup, outlined a vision of “human development” as the antidote to institutional stagnation. He emphasised that the Military Academy’s role has expanded beyond traditional soldiering to become a crucible for civil service reform.
The academy currently hosts training cycles for various civilian sectors, including the ministries of Transport, Finance, and Foreign Affairs, as well as members of the judiciary.
The President has made it clear that the core idea behind the Military Academy is to create a programme for modernisation within our state institutions. He said that institutional “rigidity” leads to decline, asserting that rigorous selection criteria and digitised assessment systems are being implemented to eliminate “favouritism” in government appointments.
He announced the upcoming establishment of four new specialised colleges within the Military Academy, focusing on engineering, software, medicine, and physiotherapy to provide world-class education through international partnerships.
Economic resilience, social stability
Addressing the domestic front, the President offered a reassuring outlook on Egypt’s economic trajectory. He noted that despite global volatility, the domestic situation remains stable with essential commodities secured for the upcoming holy month of Ramadan.
He urged patience regarding economic reforms, stating that “improvement is a continuous process” and that the fruits of current efforts would be harvested through increased productivity and stronger investment opportunities.
Diplomatic breakthroughs amid regional risks
The President’s speech took a significant turn toward international affairs, specifically the conflict in Gaza and escalating tensions with Iran.
El-Sisi praised the diplomatic efforts of U.S. President Donald Trump, describing him as a “peacemaker.” He highlighted the significance of the United States initiating the “second phase” of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza following the return of captives. “There is now a vital opportunity for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip and the delivery of humanitarian aid after two difficult years,” ElSisi remarked, confirming he had personally thanked President Trump during their recent meeting in Davos.
As forthe escalating crisis with Iran, the President revealed that Egypt is working hard to encourage dialogue and de-escalate the situation, warning that any military confrontation would have dangerous repercussions for regional stability and the global economy.
Interactive dialogue
Ambassador El-Shennawy said the visit concluded with an informal breakfast where the President engaged in an interactive dialogue with cadets. He stressed the importance of physical fitness, the responsible use of social media, and the “culture of difference,” urging future leaders to avoid polarisation.
