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The Six Day War Essay

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The Six Day War

Introduction
History records the 1967 Arab-Israeli War (Six-Day War) as one of the most memorable on record. Israeli forces delivered a stunning defeat to a coalition of Arab forces that greatly outnumbered the much smaller Israeli force. Victory was made possible by the initial aerial attack launched by Israeli Air Forces. The elements of surprise, stealth, Operational Security (OPSEC), precision planning and flawless execution were essential to victory. The opening aerial offensive has been called “one of the most stunning successes in modern warfare” . This case study will review the history, preparation, execution, and lessons learned of this conflict. There is much profit for those who will study this …show more content…

Jordan and Syrian forces were reinforcing positions. Egyptian

forces were massing on its borders, blockading shipping lanes in the Strait of Tiran, and

flying reconnaissance flights over Israel . Even the United Nations peacekeeping force

was removed, a major victory for Arab forces . Nothing was left to protect Israel. She

was on her own to navigate this difficult situation and mercy was not an option to expect

from her enemies.

Much of the nation feared the upcoming war. Elementary school students were

tasked to dig graves in order to prepare for the massive casualties that were expected .

National politicians remained very concerned over the nation’s ability to meet the threat

of combined Arab nations. The expectation of Arab attacks was anticipated and the mood

was drear. It was felt that the demise of the nation of Israel was in the realm of

possibility; that absolute destruction of those who had survived such horrible calamities

at the hands of history’s evil men.

Planning and Preparation
Combat power was certainly in the favor of Arab forces. Manpower was 409,000 vs. 230,000. Tanks were 2,437 vs. 1,100. Artillery pieces were 649 vs. 260. Naval vessels were 90 vs. 22. Aircraft were 969 vs. 354. All were in favor of Arab forces . Israel had little hope in terms of combat power. Warfare skills would have to far surpass the Arab

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