Nasser's 9 June speech
"I have taken a decision with which I need your help. I have decided to withdraw totally and for good from any official post or political role, and to return to the ranks of the masses, performing my duty in their midst, like any other citizen.
"The forces of imperialism believe that Gamal Abdel-Nasser is their enemy. I want it to be clear to them that it is the whole Arab nation, not just Gamal Abdel-Nasser, that is their enemy.
"The forces hostile to the Arab nationalist movement try to portray it as Abdel-Nasser's empire, a falsehood, since the hope of Arab unity began before Abdel-Nasser and will continue after Abdel-Nasser.
"In accordance with the text of Article 110 of the interim constitution issued in March 1964, I have assigned my colleague, friend and brother, Zakaria Mohieddin, to take over the post of president, and to act in accordance with the stipulations of the relevant article of the constitution.
"This is a time for action, not grief ... My whole heart is with you, and let your hearts be with me. May God be with us; hope, light and guidance in our hearts."
It was only as Nasser's resignation statement was broadcast live on Egyptian television and radio on 9 June that millions of Egyptians and Arabs realised the full scope of the defeat. In homes and coffee houses across the land, the nation had gathered to listen to the leader's words. Everywhere bitter tears told the same story: a common dream of dignity and liberation was shattered.
Immediately after the statement was broadcast, however, millions poured onto the streets throughout the country. Their rejection of Abdel-Nasser's resignation was expressed in a battle cry: "We shall fight!"
The humiliating defeat of June 1967 was a gauntlet thrown in the face of the century-old Egyptian and Arab nationalist movement, ruthlessly exposing its defects and shortcomings. The challenge was met in part, stunning Israel and the world in October 1973. Thirty-four years later, the challenge remains to be met in full.
The continuing Israeli occupation of Arab lands, its overwhelming oppression of the Palestinian people and denial of their fundamental rights, and the arrogance that defines Israel's attitude towards its Arab neighbours, indicates that "the setback" of 1967 still echoes across the region.
New and historic struggles have emerged, however, as in Iraq, and that presage a possible renaissance on the road to Arab dignity and independence in the face of foreign imperialism.
Recommend
Comment
Printer-friendly
