In a recent interview on the Egyptian Radio and Television Union's program "بيت للكل" (Home for All), General Mahmoud Taltah, a hero of the 1973 war, revealed new details about the war's preparations, strategic deception, and Arab support. Taltah emphasized the crucial role of the home front and the Egyptian people's resilience during the war. He began by paying tribute to the martyrs and their families, stressing the importance of remembering the Egyptian people's sacrifices and steadfastness during that period.
General Taltah described the events leading up to the war, which began to unfold about ten days before October 6, 1973. He noted that the political situation on both the Egyptian and Syrian fronts was escalating, and everyone was expecting a military confrontation. However, the exact timing of the attack was not known to all, and the soldiers and commanders felt a sense of anticipation around noon on the day of the attack.
Taltah recounted the moment of crossing the Suez Canal, describing it as an unforgettable experience. He mentioned that the soldiers' loud chants of "Allahu Akbar" (God is great) filled the air as they crossed the bridges, tanks, and large water hoses that removed the Bar-Lev Line. The general emphasized that the scenes depicted in films do not do justice to the reality of the event, as the leadership had decided not to film the moment to maintain secrecy.
The general discussed the strategic deception plan, which he described as being in place in 1973. He mentioned that a central plan, code-named "سلامة" (Salamah), involved around 150 measures implemented by various state agencies, which were carried out without anyone realizing they were part of the deception plan. Taltah praised the "games" played by President Anwar El-Sadat, which formed the basis of the successful deception strategy.
General Taltah highlighted the importance of Arab support during the 1973 war. He mentioned that Iraq sent squadrons of fighter jets and a Kuwaiti battalion before the war, while a Palestinian commando unit already stationed in Egypt participated in the fighting. Additionally, forces from Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, and Sudan arrived during the war, and Libya provided squadrons of Mirage jets.
The general also discussed the significance of the Sinai Peninsula in Israeli mentality, citing historical and geographical factors. He referenced the work of the late geographer Dr. Jamal Hamdan and an Israeli booklet obtained by Egyptian intelligence in 1970, which was distributed to Israeli soldiers on the Bar-Lev Line.
General Taltah concluded by emphasizing that Egypt's experience in the 1973 war demonstrated the country's ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. He stated that Egypt, while welcoming to all, would not cede an inch of its land, and that the Egyptian people would always stand firm in defending their nation.
Key points
- General Mahmoud Taltah reveals strategic deception behind 1973 war.
- Home front played crucial role in 1973 war.
- Arab support was significant during 1973 war.
