The Dividends of the Revolution Will Extend to All Citizens, Ushering in an Overall Improvement

Translated by Ahmed Raslan

Reviewed by Mohaned Mohammed

Brethren of El Arish:

I greet you and extend my deepest gratitude for the warm sentiments I have witnessed since my arrival. I am well aware that El Arish, by virtue of its position on Egypt’s frontiers, is inherently bound to the spirit of patriotism and the core principles of the Revolution.

The Revolution in Egypt was not staged for a privileged few; it was ignited for the sake of the entire nation. In its mission, it is steadfastly committed to ensuring that prosperity reaches every corner of our land, from north to south, and from east to west. By upholding the Revolution’s objectives, we empower it to realise its goals and achieve comprehensive reform. Although El Arish is situated on the nation’s periphery, this does not diminish its stature. On the contrary, its importance is paramount; it serves as the frontline bastion in defending the nation’s sovereignty, its territory, and its honour.

Therefore, my brothers, the Revolution, in its tireless efforts to elevate living standards, has not overlooked El Arish. The Revolution aims to raise the standard of living among the people of this country; it aims to raise the standard of living among all the people of the country, in every spot and in every place.

Therefore, my brother, the dividends of the revolution will extend to all citizens, ushering in an overall improvement, in reform, and in the standard of living. As for your local concerns and specific issues which I have studied over the past two days, I assure you they are being prioritised for implementation. Your local demands, particularly the critical issue of land ownership, are now under official review.

I have promised the Governor to examine this matter immediately upon my return to Cairo. Soon, God willing, a solution will be enacted that guarantees justice and equality for everyone. Finally, I must emphasise the grave responsibility you bear as border residents. Your paramount duty is to deny any foothold to the enemy or their collaborators. Such elements must find no sanctuary among you; they must be entirely uprooted to secure your lives, your land, and your dignity. You must stand united as a formidable front, supporting the Armed Forces in their sacred mission of national defence. Protecting the nation is, fundamentally, protecting yourselves. This is your primary mandate: the security of your region.

This, my brothers, is your fundamental duty. It means ensuring that Israel and Jews find no opportunity to plant an infiltrator among you. You are all guardians; you are all soldiers; you are all defenders of the homeland. We must never allow for complacency in our duty, nor provide the enemy with a window to send an agent to move undetected among us.

In this close-knit community, you all know one another. If a stranger appears, do not say: "This is the task of the Governor or the Army." It is your task, the duty of every single one of you. Protecting the nation and your town is a responsibility that rests upon your shoulders.

Peace be upon you, and the mercy of God and His blessings.

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Speech by President Gamal Abdel Nasser to the Liberation Rally in El Arish

March 30, 1955