Amin Howeidi


Amin Howeidi was an Egyptian military leader, author and defense minister under Nasser's rule.

Early life and education

Howeidi was born in Munufiya on 22 September 1921. He attended the Military Academy and graduated in 1940. He held a master's degree in military sciences from the Chief of Staff College, which he received in 1951. Then he attended the US Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, and obtained another master's degree in military sciences in 1955. Next, he obtained a master's degree in translation, press and publication from Cairo University in 1956.

Career

After, graduation, Howeidi began to work as a teacher at the Military Academy. Later, he became a professor at the Military Chief of Staff College. In addition, he served as the head of military operations planning in the Armed Forces Command. He was part of the Free Officers who realized the 1952 revolution in Egypt. Then he began to hold public posts. His offices included ambassador to Morocco, ambassador to Iraq, minister of national guidance, and minister of state for cabinet affairs.
He was appointed defense minister and director of general intelligence by Gamal Abdel Nasser after the defeat of Egypt in the Six-Day War. His term as defense minister began in June 1967, and he replaced Shams Badran in the post. Howeidi's term ended in March 1968 and he was succeeded by Mohammed Fawzi as defense minister. Howeidi served as director of general intelligence from 1967 to 1970.

Arrest

In 1971, Howeidi was detained along with 91 others accused of treason, and then tried at the Revolutionary Tribunal. He was sentenced to house arrest for nearly 10 years.

Personal life

Howeidi was married and had two children, a daughter and a son.

Publications

Howeidi was the author of various books, including How Zionist Leaders Think, Lost Opportunities, 50 Years of Storms: Telling What I saw and The 1967 War: The Secrets and Mysteries. In addition, he wrote opinions for Al Ahram Weekly.

Death

Howeidi died on 31 October 2009 at the age of 88.