The return of the Land of Turquoise was not merely a territorial restoration, but the beginning of a sustained effort to secure, stabilize, and develop a region that lies at the heart of Egypt’s national security architecture.
How would you describe the nature of the terrorist threats Sinai has faced in recent years?
Mohamed Ibrahim El-Dewiri (MIE): Over the past decade, particularly following the January 2011 revolution, Sinai witnessed the entrenchment of terrorist groups that exploited the region’s rugged terrain. This made confronting them at that stage an extremely complex and difficult task.
What were the main features of Egypt’s strategy to combat terrorism on the ground?
MIE: Egypt adopted a comprehensive and carefully structured strategy based on three parallel tracks implemented over an extended period. These included decisive and effective security measures, sustained intellectual efforts to counter extremist ideology, and economic development, especially in the most vulnerable and underserved areas.
How did the state sustain a confrontation that lasted nearly a decade?
MIE: The continuity of this strategy, alongside coordination between all state institutions, ensured its effectiveness. The long-term nature of the confrontation required persistence, adaptability, and a clear understanding that security, thought, and development must operate together rather than separately.
What role did the Armed Forces play in balancing military decisiveness with civilian protection?
MIE: The Egyptian Armed Forces played the central role in confronting terrorism. Their operations were highly successful in targeting terrorist elements and dismantling their strongholds. At the same time, they maintained a precise balance by avoiding harm to civilians, even though terrorist groups often operated within civilian areas. This balance was a key factor in the overall success of the campaign.
How did security operations help dismantle terrorist networks in Sinai?
MIE: Intensive and sustained operations carried out by the Armed Forces, in close coordination with the civilian police, were instrumental in dismantling terrorist networks. This coordination among security institutions remains a fundamental pillar in protecting Egypt’s national security.
How did counterterrorism success contribute to creating a favorable environment for development?
MIE: Restoring security was a prerequisite for development. No serious investment can take place in an unstable environment. Therefore, Egypt’s success in eliminating terrorism directly contributed to attracting investment and launching comprehensive development projects.
What lessons can be drawn from Egypt’s counterterrorism experience?
MIE: There are several key lessons, including the importance of constant security vigilance, raising public awareness about the dangers of terrorism, expanding economic development across all regions, and confronting extremist ideology intellectually to correct misconceptions and prevent radicalization.
How do you interpret Egypt’s firm stance on preserving Sinai’s sovereignty and demographic composition?
MIE: Egypt’s position on Sinai is closely tied to its broader national security doctrine, which rejects any infringement on any part of its territory. Sinai is particularly sensitive due to recurring proposals, especially from Israel. Egypt approaches Sinai from a comprehensive perspective that includes security, economic, social, and developmental dimensions, and will firmly confront any attempt to undermine its sovereignty.
How did Egypt deal with regional proposals regarding the displacement of Palestinians into Sinai?
MIE: Egypt addressed all such proposals with absolute firmness, clearly rejecting any attempt to relocate Palestinians into Sinai. It acted decisively at both regional and international levels, sending clear messages that such plans are unacceptable and that Egypt will take all necessary measures to protect its national security.
What message does Egypt’s steadfast position send internationally?
MIE: These positions have resonated strongly at the international level, reinforcing the understanding that Egypt seeks to promote stability in the region while acting with seriousness and resolve in defending its national security interests.
How is Sinai’s stability linked to Egypt’s overall stability?
MIE: Sinai’s stability is inseparable from the stability of the Egyptian state. Any instability in Sinai directly impacts national security, while stability there reinforces the broader strategic balance of the country.
What role has the political leadership played in safeguarding sovereignty?
MIE: The political leadership has been clear and consistent in declaring that national sovereignty is a red line that cannot be crossed. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has repeatedly emphasized this principle, which has strengthened Egypt’s regional standing and aligned international positions more closely with its own.
How does Egypt balance its international commitments with safeguarding sovereignty?
MIE: Egypt remains committed to its international obligations as long as other parties adhere to them. This reflects a balanced approach that upholds agreements without compromising national sovereignty.
What is the key lesson for younger generations regarding national sovereignty?
MIE: It is essential to raise awareness among younger generations about the sacrifices and achievements that have shaped Egypt’s sovereignty. Historical milestones such as the October War of 1973 and the Taba arbitration case demonstrate how Egypt has defended its rights through both military action and diplomacy, grounded in strong political will at both the leadership and public levels.
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