The 1973 Arab-Israeli War was a defining moment in Egyptian history, with the police playing a vital role in supporting the military and protecting the country's internal security. According to former Deputy Interior Minister Adil Zankaloni, the war was a national effort that involved all institutions of the state, including the police. The police worked closely with the military and the people to defend the country against Israeli aggression.
In the months leading up to the war, the Egyptian government, under the leadership of President Anwar El-Sadat, took steps to prepare for the conflict. Interior Minister Mamdouh Salem was tasked with securing the country's internal borders and preparing the police for the war. This included training police units in combat operations and establishing a network of informants and spies to gather intelligence on Israeli military movements.
On the eve of the war, Salem met with senior police officials to review plans and prepare for the conflict. The police were tasked with securing key infrastructure, including ports, airports, and major roads. They also worked to prevent Israeli agents from operating inside Egypt and to disrupt Israeli plans to sabotage Egyptian military equipment.
One of the key roles played by the police during the war was to foil an Israeli plan to disrupt Egyptian radar systems using aluminum foil. Israeli aircraft dropped large quantities of aluminum foil in the skies above the Suez Canal, hoping to confuse Egyptian radar systems and create an opening for an Israeli attack. However, Egyptian police were able to detect the plan and take steps to counter it, protecting the country's radar systems and preventing a potentially disastrous outcome.
The police also played a crucial role in securing the Suez Canal and preventing Israeli forces from advancing on Egyptian territory. In the city of Suez, police units worked closely with local resistance fighters to defend the city against Israeli attacks. Despite being heavily outnumbered and outgunned, the police and resistance fighters were able to hold off the Israeli army and prevent them from capturing the city.
In addition to their military role, the police also played a key role in maintaining public order and morale during the war. They worked to prevent panic and rumors from spreading, and helped to maintain a sense of calm and stability in the face of Israeli aggression. This included countering false reports of Israeli atrocities and working to prevent the spread of misinformation.
The efforts of the Egyptian police during the 1973 war were widely recognized and praised by the military and government leaders. Their bravery and dedication helped to defend the country against Israeli aggression and ultimately contributed to Egypt's victory in the war. The police role in the war remains an important part of Egyptian history and a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the country's law enforcement officers.
Key points
- The Egyptian police foiled an Israeli plan to disrupt radar systems using aluminum foil during the 1973 war.
- The police played a crucial role in securing the Suez Canal and preventing Israeli forces from advancing on Egyptian territory.
- The police helped maintain public order and morale during the war, countering false reports and rumors.
