Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi stated that lasting peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, reiterating Egypt's rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians from their land. He made these remarks during a speech at a military-organized educational symposium marking Egypt's Martyrs' Day.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi delivered a speech at a military-organized educational symposium on Egypt's Martyrs' Day, attended by senior state officials and military leaders. He warned that the region faces a critical moment amid ongoing conflict, cautioning that further escalation could lead to significant humanitarian, economic, and security repercussions.
Al-Sisi emphasized the need for peaceful solutions, stating: "there can be no settlements without dialogue, no solutions without negotiation, and no peace without mutual understanding that safeguards security and protects peoples from the tragedies of war."
He addressed developments in the Gaza Strip, highlighting the importance of fully implementing the ceasefire agreement, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid, and launching reconstruction efforts in the enclave. Al-Sisi also warned against attempts to fuel tensions in the Nile Basin and the Horn of Africa, describing such moves as dangerous and potentially destabilizing for the wider region.
On the economic front, Al-Sisi said Egypt's economy remains "in a safe zone" despite regional and global challenges, but noted that the war in Gaza has cost the country nearly $10bn in lost revenues from the Suez Canal since October 2023.
During the event, Al-Sisi honored families of fallen soldiers and wounded service members. The ceremony also featured artistic performances and documentary films commemorating Egypt's war heroes.
