Dr. Zahi Hawass, the renowned Egyptologist and former Minister of State for Antiquities Affairs, confirmed in an exclusive interview with the journalist Naif Al-Ahmari on the program "Debatable" that the recent claims about the existence of columns beneath the pyramids are mere "fake discoveries" and are not based on any archaeological or scientific evidence.
Hawass denied the validity of the claims made by Italian researchers, and considered the statements of the American presenter Joe Rogan regarding this matter as "narcissistic" and not relying on any scientific facts.
He explained that the pyramids were built in multiple stages, by pure Egyptian hands, stating that his book "Giza and the Pyramids" contains comprehensive evidence confirming this, and it is available to everyone.
Hawass added that the scientific defense of the Egyptian civilization is vital to confront what he described as "nonsense talk," urging opponents to review the scientific evidence instead of spreading myths originating from writings that appeared in the ninth century AD, which the West continues to circulate to this day.
In a humorous comment, Hawass revealed that Joe Rogan asked him to smoke a cigar during the interview, indicating that his appearance with a cigar in the meeting was at the latter's request.
In part of the dialogue, Hawass talked about the statue of the Sphinx, confirming that the head of the statue is smaller than its body, and that the statue is in good condition, also denying the existence of a second statue similar to the Sphinx.
Regarding the existence of archaeological evidence proving the presence of the prophets Abraham, Moses, and Joseph (peace be upon them) in Egypt, Hawass said: "There is no archaeological evidence proving the presence of these prophets in Egypt," but he pointed out that there are traces confirming the presence of the Hebrews in the country.
Hawass concluded his speech by emphasizing that archaeological discoveries in Egypt are still in their early stages, as only about 30% of the country's artifacts have been uncovered, meaning that 70% of the artifacts are still hidden underground awaiting discovery.