1968 Israeli Forces Cross Jordan River to Attack PLO Bases

Name: 1968 Israeli Forces Cross Jordan River to Attack PLO Bases
Start: 1968-03-21
Location: Unspecified

Operation Gift from God: A Strategic Strike

On March 21, 1968, a notable military operation took place when **Israeli forces** crossed the **Jordan River** to target **PLO bases** in a bold move that reflected the heightened tensions in the region. Known as **Operation Gift from God**, the incursion was a direct response to an attack on Israeli territory that had been executed by the **Palestine Liberation Organization** (PLO) shortly before. This event marked a crucial moment in the **Israeli-Palestinian conflict**, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for power and territory in the Middle East.

Background of the 1968 Conflict

The tension between Israel and the Arab nations was at an all-time high following the **Six-Day War** in 1967, where Israel gained significant territory. The PLO, which aimed to liberate Palestine, became increasingly active and aggressive in its operations against Israeli targets. This growing militancy within the PLO prompted Israel to take striking measures to neutralize any threat posed to its security, setting the stage for the incursion across the Jordan.

The Execution of the Attack

The operation itself involved a coordinated assault where Israeli troops, equipped with air and ground support, advanced into **Jordanian territory**. They aimed to dismantle the PLO bases responsible for orchestrating cross-border attacks. The swift military action intended to signal to the PLO and its allies that Israel was capable of retaliating decisively, thereby deterring future aggression and maintaining a strategic edge in the ongoing conflict.

Impact and Aftermath of the Operation

The Israeli incursion had immediate and long-lasting effects on the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While the operation succeeded in targeting several PLO installations, it also exacerbated tensions between Jordan and Israel, as well as drawing international attention to the ongoing violence in the region.

Regional Reactions to the Crossing

The reaction from Jordan was swift and severe, as the government condemned Israel's actions and took steps to bolster its military presence along the border. The operation also had repercussions on the regional geopolitics as it showcased Israel's willingness to pursue aggressive military strategies, while at the same time prompting closer ties among Arab nations against what was seen as Israeli aggression.

The PLO's Response and Resilience

Despite suffering losses, the PLO utilized the attack as a rallying point to galvanize support and enhance its image in the Arab world. Subsequently, they adopted more guerrilla tactics and strategies for resilience, thus prolonging the struggle between the Israeli forces and Palestinian groups over the next decades.

Fun Fact

Operation Gift from God: Did You Know?

This operation is sometimes referred to in strategic briefings and discussions on military tactics as an example of how conflicts lead to escalated military responses, forming part of a cycle that often complicates negotiations for peace in the region.