Defense Minister Leads Military Funeral for General Youssef Afifi

Military funeral for General Youssef Afifi.

General Ashraf Salem Zaher, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Minister of Defense and Military Production, led the military funeral for General Youssef Afifi, a celebrated hero of the Armed Forces and a commander during the October War. The ceremony took place at the military ceremonies area at Mosheer Tantawy Mosque in New Cairo.

Attendees included Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, several ministers, senior military leaders, and public figures.

Military honors were bestowed upon him in recognition of his contributions and sacrifices in service to the nation. The Minister also extended his condolences to the family of the deceased.

General Youssef Afifi began his military career after graduating from the Military Academy in 1948 and participated in the Palestine War. He was among the officers who contributed to the July 23 Revolution in 1952 before rising through various leadership positions within the Armed Forces.

During the October War in 1973, he commanded the 19th Infantry Division, which played a crucial role in crossing and breaching the Israeli defense line on the eastern bank of the Suez Canal. His division effectively established bridgeheads and carried out combat missions with high efficiency, marking a significant chapter in the history of the Egyptian Armed Forces.

Known for his leadership skills and ability to manage field operations under challenging conditions, General Afifi emerged as one of the prominent leaders of the Third Army during this pivotal period in national history. He contributed to many successes achieved by the Armed Forces during this critical phase.

Following the war, he continued his career in senior leadership roles, serving as Deputy Chief of Operations for the Armed Forces, Commander of the Third Army Corps, Head of Military Research Authority, and Assistant Minister of Defense. He later transitioned into executive roles as Governor of Red Sea and then Giza, continuing his mission to serve his country.

The late general received numerous military honors and medals, including the Order of Crossing and Order of Star of Honor, acknowledging his heroic contributions to national defense. He remained present at various national events and commemorations celebrating October victories as one of the leaders who helped achieve this great victory.