Six-Day War

Lore & Background

Israel had reiterated its position that such a closure would be a casus belli. Simultaneously, Israel launched a ground offensive into the Sinai Peninsula and the Gaza Strip. Jordan, which had a defense pact with Egypt, launched attacks to slow Israel's advance, and Syria joined by shelling Israeli positions in the north.

Reader's Guide

The Six-Day War reshaped the Middle East, leading to Israel's occupation of the Sinai Peninsula, Gaza Strip, West Bank (including East Jerusalem), and Golan Heights. Nasser resigned in shame after Israel's victory but was reinstated after protests. The war also involved the USS Liberty incident, in which Israeli forces mistakenly attacked a US Navy spy ship, killing 34 US personnel. The conflict demonstrated Israel's military superiority and the effectiveness of preemptive air strikes, while deepening regional tensions and setting the stage for future conflicts.

Did You Know?

• The war began with Operation Focus, an Israeli surprise airstrike that destroyed nearly all of Egypt's air force.
• 15 UN peacekeepers were killed by Israeli strikes in the Sinai at the outset of the war.
• 34 US personnel were killed in the USS Liberty incident, in which Israeli forces mistakenly attacked a US Navy spy ship.