Meaning: Naguib Mahfouz, the renowned Egyptian novelist and Nobel Prize winner, made this statement about Anwar Sadat, the third President of Egypt. The quote reflects Mahfouz's sentiments towards Sadat's presidency and his impact on the people of Egypt. It suggests that Sadat's leadership instilled a sense of security and stability among the citizens of Egypt during his tenure. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the historical context in which it was made and explore the key events and policies of Sadat's presidency.

Anwar Sadat succeeded Gamal Abdel Nasser as the President of Egypt in 1970, following Nasser's death. Sadat inherited a nation that was grappling with the aftermath of the Six-Day War with Israel in 1967 and the subsequent loss of the Sinai Peninsula. Nasser's rule was characterized by Arab nationalism and socialism, and he had established a one-party system under the Arab Socialist Union. However, Sadat sought to depart from Nasser's policies and embarked on a new path for Egypt, both domestically and internationally.

One of Sadat's most significant decisions was the shift in Egypt's foreign policy, particularly towards the West and Israel. In 1973, Sadat launched the Yom Kippur War, also known as the October War, against Israel in an effort to regain the Sinai Peninsula. The conflict ultimately led to the signing of the Camp David Accords in 1978, facilitated by the United States and resulting in a peace treaty between Egypt and Israel. This diplomatic breakthrough not only secured the return of the Sinai Peninsula to Egypt but also paved the way for Egypt to become the first Arab country to officially recognize Israel.

Internally, Sadat implemented economic reforms known as the Infitah, or "open door" policy, which aimed to liberalize the Egyptian economy and attract foreign investment. This shift towards a more market-oriented economy brought about significant changes in the country's economic landscape. Despite facing criticism for the socioeconomic disparities that emerged as a result of these reforms, Sadat's policies aimed to modernize Egypt and reduce its dependency on state-controlled industries.

In the realm of politics, Sadat initiated a process of political openness, or "infitah," allowing for a degree of political pluralism and the re-emergence of political parties. This marked a departure from Nasser's authoritarian rule and provided a newfound sense of political freedom for the Egyptian people. However, this period of political openness was short-lived, as Sadat's regime cracked down on opposition movements and dissent, leading to the arrest and imprisonment of political opponents and activists.

It is within this context that Naguib Mahfouz's statement about feeling more secure under Sadat's leadership gains significance. Despite the complexities and controversies surrounding Sadat's policies, his presidency did bring about a sense of stability and security for many Egyptians. The return of the Sinai Peninsula and the peace treaty with Israel were perceived as monumental achievements that contributed to a sense of national pride and security. Additionally, the economic reforms and political openness introduced during Sadat's presidency offered a glimpse of hope and progress for the Egyptian people.

However, it is important to note that not all segments of Egyptian society experienced this sense of security during Sadat's rule. The crackdown on political opposition and dissent, as well as the growing economic disparities, resulted in challenges and grievances for many Egyptians. Furthermore, Sadat's foreign policy decisions, particularly the peace treaty with Israel, sparked controversy and condemnation from other Arab nations and some factions within Egypt.

In conclusion, Naguib Mahfouz's statement encapsulates the complex legacy of Anwar Sadat's presidency and its impact on the people of Egypt. Sadat's leadership brought about significant changes in Egypt's foreign policy, economy, and political landscape, eliciting diverse reactions from the populace. While some perceived a newfound sense of security and stability under his rule, others experienced challenges and disillusionment. Mahfouz's quote serves as a reflection of the multifaceted nature of Sadat's presidency and the varied responses it elicited from the Egyptian society.