Famous Egyptian Military Leaders

Ibrahim Pasha of Egypt was a prominent general and politician who commanded both Egyptian and Ottoman armies. He played a crucial role in expanding his father's established Egyptian army, achieving significant military victories and extending his rule over various territories. Ibrahim succeeded his father as ruler of Egypt and Sudan, ruling over dominions like Syria, Hejaz, Morea, Thasos, and Crete. Known for his military prowess, Ibrahim's legacy is celebrated among the Muhammad Ali dynasty, with a statue in his honor in Cairo.

Muhammad Hosni El Sayed Mubarak was an Egyptian military officer who served as the fourth president of Egypt from 1981 to 2011. Before entering politics, he was a career officer in the Egyptian Air Force, eventually rising to the rank of air chief marshal. Mubarak was appointed vice president in 1975 and assumed the presidency in 1981 after the assassination of President Anwar Sadat. His presidency lasted nearly thirty years, marked by single-candidate referendums, multi-party elections under US pressure, and a repressive regime characterized by a state of emergency and widespread corruption. Mubarak stepped down during the Egyptian Revolution of 2011 and faced legal trials for corruption and abuse of power, eventually leading to his imprisonment and subsequent release.

Amr ibn al-As was a prominent Arab commander and companion of Muhammad, known for leading the Muslim conquest of Egypt. He played crucial roles in various conquests and battles, including in Syria and Palestine, where he achieved significant victories over the Byzantines. Amr initiated the conquest of Egypt and swiftly secured Alexandria, followed by further expansions westward. He governed Egypt effectively, maintaining the existing bureaucracy and fostering good relations with the Coptic population. Despite facing challenges and accusations, Amr remained influential and wealthy, serving under different caliphs until his death.

Abd el-Fattah el-Sisi is an Egyptian politician and retired military officer. He served as Egypt's deputy prime minister, minister of defense, and director of military intelligence before becoming the president in 2014. Sisi has received training in military colleges in the United Kingdom and the United States. He played a significant role in the Egyptian revolution of 2011 and the subsequent overthrow of Mohamed Morsi. Sisi has been criticized for his authoritarian government and strict rule, with minimal opposition in the presidential elections.

Muhammad Naguib was an Egyptian military officer and revolutionary, known for his leadership in the Free Officers movement of 1952 that led to the establishment of the Republic of Egypt. He was a distinguished and decorated general, wounded in the 1948 Arab–Israeli War. Naguib became the head of the Revolutionary Command Council, prime minister, and first president of Egypt. He successfully negotiated the independence of Sudan and the withdrawal of British military personnel from Egypt. Naguib's presidency ended due to disagreements with other Free Officers, notably Nasser.

Najm ad-Din Ayyub was a Kurdish soldier who served the Turkish rulers of Syria and Iraq. He rose to prominence as the governor of Damascus, showcasing leadership skills and military prowess. Ayyub played a significant role in the region's political landscape, contributing to the consolidation of power and influence. His career was marked by strategic decision-making and dedication to his duties, which eventually paved the way for his son, Saladin, to establish the Ayyubid dynasty and become a respected sultan of Egypt and Syria.

Abdel Hakim Amer was an Egyptian military officer and politician known for his significant roles in key events in Egyptian history. He participated in the 1948 Arab–Israeli War and played a crucial part in the military coup that toppled King Farouk in 1952. Amer led Egyptian forces during the 1956 Suez Crisis and subsequently served as the Minister for Defense under President Gamal Abdel Nasser. He held the position of Egyptian Vice President between 1958 and 1965, showcasing his influence in both military and political spheres.

Herihor served as a distinguished Egyptian army officer and High Priest of Amun at Thebes during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses XI. As an army officer, he demonstrated strategic prowess and leadership skills in protecting the kingdom and maintaining order. Simultaneously, his role as the High Priest of Amun highlighted his religious devotion and administrative capabilities in overseeing the temple affairs and rituals. Herihor's professional life was marked by a harmonious balance between military duties and religious responsibilities, making him a respected figure in ancient Egyptian society.

Pharnabazus II was a Persian soldier and statesman who served as the Satrap of Hellespontine Phrygia. He and his ancestors had ruled over the satrapy since 478 BC. He married Apama, daughter of Artaxerxes II, and their son Artabazus also became a satrap. Pharnabazus II was known for his military leadership and diplomatic skills. He played a key role in maintaining control over the region and establishing alliances. His professional life was marked by strategic decision-making and successful governance.

Abu al-Misk Kafur, also known as al-Laithi, al-Suri, al-Labi, was a prominent figure in Ikhshidid Egypt and Syria. Initially a black slave, he rose to the position of vizier of Egypt following the death of his master. Subsequently, he effectively governed Egypt, southern Syria, and Hijaz until his passing. Kafur's leadership was marked by his influential role as the de facto ruler of the Ikshidid domains, demonstrating his strategic and administrative prowess in managing these regions until his death.

Mounir Sabet is an Egyptian sports official and former sport shooter. He was a member of the national shooting team in 1965. Serving as the President of the Egyptian Olympic Committee from 1990 to 1993, he was re-elected in 1996 and held the position until 2009. Additionally, from 1998 to 2016, Sabet was a member of the International Olympic Committee. Throughout his professional life, he has made significant contributions to the field of sports administration on both national and international levels.

Hesham Ashmawy began his professional life in 1996 as a member of the Egyptian military, eventually rising to become an officer in the Thunderbolt unit. He was dismissed from the military in 2011 under unclear circumstances due to accusations of spreading extremist thought and incitement against the Armed Forces. Ashmawy then embraced al-Qaeda and later formed his own network, al-Mourabitoun, based in Libya. He became a notorious militant and one of Egypt's most wanted before being arrested in 2018 and subsequently executed in 2020.

Muḥammad ʿAbd al-Munʿim Riyāḍ began his professional journey studying medicine before transitioning to military training. He ascended to the position of the United Arab Republic army's chief of staff, showcasing his leadership skills and strategic capabilities. Renowned for his involvement in the Arab-Israeli conflicts, he played a significant role in these wars. Unfortunately, his career was cut short when he was killed by Israeli forces during the War of Attrition, leaving behind a legacy of military service and dedication to his country.

Field Marshal Ahmad Ismail Ali was a distinguished Egyptian military officer who played a crucial role in various conflicts, including the Yom Kippur War of 1973. Graduating from the Military Academy in 1938, he served in key positions such as Chief of Staff of the Egyptian Armed Forces and Minister of War. He was known for his strategic planning skills, particularly exemplified by his leadership in Operation Badr, the attack across the Suez Canal. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a strong commitment to his country and its defense.

Abd al-Halim Abu Ghazala served as the Defense Minister of Egypt from 1981 to 1989. He played a significant role in the military and political landscape of Egypt during this period. Notably, he was seated next to President Anwar Sadat during the assassination of the president. Abu Ghazala's tenure as Defense Minister was marked by various military and strategic decisions that shaped Egypt's defense policies. His professional life was characterized by a strong commitment to national security and defense of the country.

Ahmed Hamdi was an Egyptian engineer and general known for his leadership during the Yom Kippur War. Graduating from Cairo University's Faculty of Engineering, he joined the Egyptian Air Force before training at the Frunze Military Academy in the Soviet Union. Hamdi played a key role in various military operations, such as disarming landmines during the Suez Crisis, blowing up the El Ferdan Railway Bridge in 1967, and overseeing the installation of bridges for the 3rd Army during the Yom Kippur War. He was posthumously awarded the Sinai Star, Egypt's highest military honor, and honored with the naming of the Ahmed Hamdi Tunnel. Additionally, he excelled as an international sport shooter, winning medals at the 1951 Mediterranean Games and competing in the 1952 Summer Olympics.