President Sisi said that Egypt draws strength from the spirit of its October 1973 victory as it continues to build a modern and strong nation capable of taking its rightful place among leading countries.
In his televised speech marking the 52nd anniversary of the October War, Sisi further said that: “From the spirit of October, we draw our determination today to build a new Egypt — a modern Egypt that is worthy of its status and history, a country that deserves to be among the great nations. We are working with dedication and sincerity to build a strong, advanced and modern state that reflects Egypt’s true weight and civilizational and humanitarian value in a world that only recognizes strength. We are establishing solid institutions, launching major development projects, and reshaping the future so that Egypt can be as it should — leading, advanced, and influential.”
He added, “Today, amid the successive crises facing our region, we are in greater need than ever to recall and apply the principles that led us to victory in October 1973, adopting them as a firm approach in our political and social life.” He stressed that the current regional situation does not allow for complacency and that the challenges demand full responsibility and inspiration from the October spirit to overcome obstacles and move forward.
Sisi noted that Egypt and Israel had once fought fierce wars and military confrontations that cost both sides dearly in blood and destruction. “Hostility could have continued and deepened had it not been for the foresight of the late President Sadat, the wisdom of the Israeli leadership at the time, and US mediation that paved the way for a just and courageous peace, breaking the cycle of revenge, ending enmity, and opening a new chapter in history.”
He emphasized that for peace to endure, it must be based on justice and fairness, not imposed by force or dictated terms. “Egypt’s experience with peace was not just a treaty, but the foundation of a just peace that brought stability and proved that fairness is the only path to lasting peace. It is a historical model to be followed in achieving genuine peace.”
Sisi continued, “From this perspective, we firmly believe that real peace in the Middle East will only be achieved with the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in accordance with international legitimacy, restoring rights to their rightful owners.”
He added, “Peace imposed by force only breeds resentment, but peace built on justice leads to genuine normalization and sustainable coexistence among peoples.”
The Egyptian president expressed appreciation to US President Donald Trump for his initiative aimed at ending hostilities in Gaza. “We value President Trump’s efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza after two years of war, extermination, killing, and destruction,” Sisi said.
“A ceasefire, the return of prisoners and detainees, the reconstruction of Gaza, and the start of a political peace process leading to the establishment and recognition of a Palestinian state — all of this means we are on the right path towards lasting peace and stability. This is our shared aspiration. Reconciliation — not confrontation — is the only path to building a secure future for our children.”
He emphasized the importance of preserving the peace framework established by the United States in the 1970s, which he said had provided a strategic foundation for regional stability. “Expanding this framework will only be possible by strengthening its pillars based on justice and ensuring the rights of the region’s peoples to live, cooperate and end conflicts — unlocking the potential for integration, prosperity and development across the region.”
In closing, Sisi assured Egyptians that the military remains fully committed to its role in defending the nation. “The army stands firm in its mission to protect the country and safeguard its borders. It does not fear challenges. It is a national army, born from the people, whose sons carry their lives in their hands and stand as a strong barrier against all dangers and threats,” he said, renewing his tribute to the armed forces and the martyrs who gave their lives for Egypt, as well as to the soldiers who keep watch so that Egyptians may live safely.
Sisi concluded by greeting the Egyptian people on the anniversary of the October victory, saying: “Happy anniversary to all. Long live Egypt… Long live Egypt… Long live Egypt.”
