What is the authenticity of the saying attributed to Umar ibn al-Khattab to Amr ibn al-Aas: "May Allah lay waste to Egypt for the prosperity and righteousness of Medina," and what is the difference between this saying and the practices of the Romans towards Egypt, if the narration is authentic?

This story exemplifies a leader's commitment to the well-being of his flock. Umar ibn al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, is an embodiment of justice and trustworthiness. During the Year of Ash, Umar sent appeals for help and provisions to the people of the provinces. This act, unimaginable from anyone else, demonstrates the depth of his concern and care for his subjects. It was narrated that he said, "If I am in a position that suffices me, while the people are in hardship, then by Allah, that is no position for me, until I am an example for the people."

Umar then proceeded to dig a canal connecting the Nile to the Red Sea to facilitate the transport of provisions. He wrote to Amr ibn al-Aas, may Allah be pleased with him, saying, "May Allah ruin the revenue of Egypt in the development and betterment of Medina." This meant spending the revenue, which represents the state budget, on this project. This did not harm the people of Egypt; rather, it increased their prosperity, and the price of goods in Medina became the same as in Egypt. This is an example of wise, Sharia-compliant governance.

When the famine struck, Umar personally consoled those afflicted. He swore not to taste clarified butter, milk, or meat until the people were revived, and he said, "How can the affairs of the subjects concern me if I do not experience what they experience?"

This stands in stark contrast to the emperors of Rome and the Caesars who exploited countries to accumulate wealth and imposed exorbitant taxes, leading to the poverty and humiliation of their peoples, unlike the Muslim rulers who safeguarded the interests of their subjects.