In a recent interview, Egyptian naval officer Captain Omar Azizi revealed astonishing details about the country's daring operations against Israel in the late 1960s. Azizi, a member of the Egyptian Navy's special forces, participated in several covert operations, including the sinking of the Israeli destroyer "Eilat" in 1967 and multiple raids on the Israeli port of Eilat between 1969 and 1970. These operations marked a significant turning point in the conflict between Egypt and Israel, demonstrating the Egyptian military's determination and capabilities.
The operations were carefully planned and executed, with Azizi and his team conducting reconnaissance and gathering intelligence on Israeli targets. The first operation against Eilat took place on November 15-16, 1969, targeting the ships "Hidroma" and "Dalia". Subsequent operations focused on other Israeli vessels and port infrastructure. Azizi emphasized that the goal of these operations was to disrupt Israeli supply lines and undermine their confidence, while also boosting Egyptian morale.
Azizi described the rigorous training and selection process for the Egyptian Navy's special forces, including the "Frogmen" unit, which he was part of. The unit's members underwent intense physical and psychological evaluations, as well as specialized training, to prepare them for high-risk missions. Azizi highlighted the importance of teamwork and trust among the unit's members, who worked together to overcome the challenges they faced.
The decision to target Eilat was strategic, as the port played a critical role in Israel's military logistics. Azizi explained that the Egyptian high command, led by President Gamal Abdel Nasser, sought to strike at Israel's economic and military vulnerabilities. The operations were also intended to demonstrate Egypt's military capabilities and deter further Israeli aggression.
Azizi revealed that a group of 18 brave Egyptian sailors, including himself, participated in the operations against Eilat. He named several of his comrades, including Mohamed El-Iraqi, Ali Abu Risha, and Adel El-Tarawy, among others. These men demonstrated exceptional courage and skill, carrying out their missions with precision and bravery.
The operations against Eilat required meticulous planning, with Azizi and his team traveling through Jordan and other areas, often in civilian clothing, to avoid detection. They faced numerous challenges, including harsh terrain and the risk of discovery. Azizi praised the leadership of the Egyptian Navy, particularly Admiral Mahmoud Fahmy, who played a key role in planning and executing the operations.
Azizi's account provides a unique perspective on Egypt's military history, highlighting the bravery and determination of its armed forces during a critical period. His story serves as a testament to the country's rich history of resistance and resilience. The operations against Eilat remain an important chapter in Egypt's military narrative, showcasing the country's ability to adapt and innovate in the face of adversity.
Key points
- Captain Omar Azizi reveals details of Egypt's naval operations against Israel in the late 1960s
- The operations, including the sinking of the destroyer "Eilat", marked a turning point in the conflict between Egypt and Israel
- Azizi's account highlights the bravery and determination of the Egyptian Navy's special forces during this period
