21 feb 1918 anni - Capture of Jericho

Descrizione:

The Capture of Jericho between February 19 and 21, 1918, was a strategic operation during the Sinai and Palestine Campaign of World War I, marking the beginning of the Occupation of the Jordan Valley by the British Empire. This offensive aimed to secure the eastern flank of the British forces east of Jerusalem, extending to the Dead Sea, effectively removing a significant threat to their right side by pushing Ottoman forces across the Jordan River.

The operation took place in challenging terrain characterized by a mix of rocky ridges and deep narrow valleys, making the movement of troops particularly difficult. The British force, comprising infantry and mounted units like the Australian light horse and New Zealand Mounted Rifles Brigades, successfully pushed back the Ottoman defenders from their entrenched positions on hilltops across the battlefield.

Prior to the attack, logistical challenges due to winter rains had paused military actions following the advance from the Gaza–Beersheba line to Jerusalem. General Edmund Allenby used this period to consolidate territories and improve supply lines which were extended over 150 miles from the main bases at Moascar and Kantara on the Suez Canal.

The actual battle involved a coordinated attack by British infantry capturing key locations like Talat ed Dumm on the main Jerusalem to Jericho road, while mounted brigades outflanked Ottoman positions, capturing Jericho and securing the area up to the Jordan River and Dead Sea. This operation not only facilitated British control over the region but also set the stage for future advances into Transjordan and heightened security along the eastern front.

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