The Egyptian Radio and Television Union played a pivotal role in the 1973 October War, broadcasting vital updates and news to the nation. On October 6, 1973, the radio station's studios transformed into a hub of activity, with many famous broadcasters and reporters being called in to read military statements. One of the key broadcasters was Salih Mahran, who was among the few who knew about the war beforehand and was tasked with reading the initial statement.
According to Salih Mahran, he and other broadcasters were summoned to the radio station early on October 6, where they were informed about the impending war and the plan to broadcast military statements. Mahran recalled that the first statement was supposed to be aired at 2:00 PM, but it was delayed until 2:20 PM. He also mentioned that he read one of the statements, although there were conflicting reports about which specific statement he read. Mahran's colleague, Hamdi Al-Balk, claimed that he read the first, third, and fifth statements.
Hamdi Al-Kanisi, another prominent broadcaster, joined the radio station as a war correspondent on the second day of the war and recorded updates from the front lines. He became known for his bravery and played a significant role in boosting the morale of Egyptian soldiers during the conflict. Al-Kanisi later became the head of the radio sector from 1997 to 2001 and hosted popular programs such as "Voice of the Battle" and "Diary of a War Correspondent".
Hamdi Al-Balk, a renowned broadcaster, played a crucial role in the war effort by working with Egyptian intelligence to send coded messages to Palestinian fighters in occupied Sinai through his program "The People in Sinai". His son, Mohamed Hamdi Al-Balk, revealed that his father was born in Arish on August 9, 1934, and had a strong sense of national duty. Al-Balk's program served as a vital link between Sinai's residents in Egypt and those in the occupied territory.
Female broadcasters also made significant contributions to the war effort, with some being allowed to read news bulletins for the first time two years prior to the war. On October 6, 1973, Mervat Ragab read the news bulletin from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM, which included the first statement of the war. The radio station's broadcasts helped to inform and reassure the Egyptian public during a time of great uncertainty.
The October War marked a significant turning point in Egyptian history, and the radio station's broadcasts played a vital role in documenting and sharing the events of that day. Many of the broadcasters and reporters involved in the coverage of the war went on to become prominent figures in Egyptian media. Their efforts helped to capture the spirit of resilience and determination that defined the Egyptian people during that challenging period.
The legacy of the October War broadcasts continues to be celebrated in Egypt, with many regarding it as a heroic chapter in the country's history. The Egyptian Radio and Television Union's archives contain a wealth of information and recordings from that time, serving as a valuable resource for historians and researchers. The bravery and dedication of the broadcasters and reporters who worked tirelessly to bring news and updates to the Egyptian people during the war remain an important part of Egypt's media heritage.
Key points
- Egyptian radio broadcast crucial war updates during 1973 conflict
- Female broadcasters contributed to war effort, reading news bulletins
- Radio station's broadcasts helped inform and reassure Egyptian public
