
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has declared that genuine peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, as he marked the 52nd anniversary of Egypt’s October 6, 1973 war victory.
Delivering a nationally televised speech on Monday, President Sisi reflected on the historic moment that reshaped the region and paid tribute to the sacrifices made by Egyptian soldiers.
“On this glorious day, we all stand in pride and honor, commemorating an immortal day in the history and conscience of the nation: October 6, 1973, a day that added pride and glory to Egypt and all Arabs.
It is the day of great victory, the day of crossing, the day when the world stood in respect and reverence for the greatness and will of the Egyptians, and for the unity of the Arab decision,” Sisi said.
He also praised the legacy of former President Mohamed Anwar El-Sadat, describing him as “a hero of war and peace, a man of bold decision-making and insightful vision, who led the nation with wisdom and courage toward victory and peace.”
Sisi emphasised that the October War taught Egyptians that victory is achieved through determination, planning, and faith.
“The October epic taught us that victory is not given, but rather taken away, and that meticulous planning, sincere and diligent work, coordination between state institutions, a cohesive internal front, and certainty in God’s victory are the keys to victory and glory,” he stated.
The president underscored the importance of building a “strong, modern, and advanced” Egypt, capable of asserting its influence on the global stage. He said that the lessons of 1973 remain vital today amid ongoing regional instability.
Reflecting on the peace process with Israel, Sisi said that the conflict could have continued without the foresight of Sadat, the wisdom of Israeli leadership, and American mediation. He argued that peace “must be built on the pillars of justice and fairness, not imposed or dictated.”
“The Egyptian experience in peace with Israel was not just an agreement, but rather the foundation for a just peace that consolidated stability and proved that fairness is the only path to lasting peace,” he said.
“From this standpoint, we firmly believe that true peace in the Middle East will only be achieved through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, in accordance with international legitimacy and in a manner that restores rights to their rightful owners,” Sisi added.
He also expressed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for his initiative to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, describing it as a crucial step toward stability.
“A ceasefire, the return of prisoners and detainees, the reconstruction of Gaza, and the beginning of a peaceful political process leading to the establishment and recognition of a Palestinian state mean that we are on the right path toward lasting peace and solid stability,” he noted.
Sisi concluded by reaffirming the Egyptian military’s commitment to defending the nation and protecting its borders.
“It is a national army, from the heart of this great people and its sons, who carry their lives in their hands and stand like an impregnable dam in the face of all difficulties and threats,” he said.
“Long live Egypt… Long live Egypt… Long live Egypt.”