I WAS SHOCKED to hear of the sudden death of President Nasser. The world has lost an outstanding leader who tirelessly and devotedly served the causes of his countrymen and the Arab world. This tragic loss requires that all nations, and particularly those in the Middle East, renew their efforts to calm passions, reach for mutual understanding, and build lasting peace. On behalf of the American people, I extend deep sympathy to his family and to his people.
Note: The statement was released on board the U.S.S. Saratoga in the Mediterranean.
Gamal Abdel Nasser, who had served as President of the United Arab Republic since 1956, died of a heart attack at the age of 52.
Richard Nixon, Statement on the Death of President Gamal Abdel Na of the United Arab Republic. Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/240667