We did not think that [Egyptian President] Nasser wanted war. The two divisions he sent to Sinai on May 14 would not have been sufficient to launch an offensive against Israel. He knew it and we knew it.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Nasser’s limited troop deployment showed he did not intend war, and both sides understood this.
- In plain terms
- Nasser’s small force indicated no desire for war, and both knew it.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize when limited actions signal restraint.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How can leaders better signal intentions?
- What clues reveal true intent?
Another view
Perceptions can differ; one side may misinterpret restraint as weakness.
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