The 1970 Jordan Offensive Against Guerrilla Forces

Name: The 1970 Jordan Offensive Against Guerrilla Forces
Start: 1935-09-17
Location: Unspecified

The Start of the 1970 Jordan Offensive

In the year 1970, Jordan witnessed a significant historical event, often referred to as the "Black September." This conflict marked a turning point in the country’s history as it was characterized by a brutal confrontation between the Jordanian Armed Forces and various Palestinian guerrilla groups. The roots of this conflict can be traced back to the growing tensions between the Jordanian government and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO), as well as the increasing power and influence of guerrilla movements in Jordan.

The Jordanian Government's Response

Under the leadership of King Hussein, the Jordanian government felt threatened by the PLO and its armed factions, which had established a parallel authority in the country. As their activities intensified, King Hussein decided that a decisive military response was necessary to restore order and assert control over his territory. This led to the launch of a major military offensive in September 1970.

The Consequences of the Offensive

The offensive was marked by widespread battles across different cities, most notably in the capital, Amman. The Jordanian military used heavy artillery against the guerrilla positions, causing extensive damage and casualties. The PLO, which had been operating in Jordan with significant autonomy, was severely weakened as a result of the offensive.

The Wider Implications of the Jordan Offensive

The 1970 Jordan Offensive not only reshaped the political landscape within Jordan but also had far-reaching effects on the Palestinian cause. After the conflict, many Palestinians were forced to flee to neighboring countries, with a significant diaspora developing. This reshaped the narrative of the Palestinian struggle and the Jordanian state.

The Impact on Palestinian Militancy

Following the offensive, the PLO relocated most of its operations to Lebanon, where it continued to pursue its objectives but under increased scrutiny and opposition. The shift also marked a significant turning point in the Palestinian movement, leading to a new phase of militant strategies.

The International Community's Reaction

The international reaction to the Jordan Offensive was mixed. Some countries condemned the violence, while others supported Jordanian efforts to stabilize the country and curb the influence of the PLO. This incident further complicated the already tense relations in the Middle East and influenced subsequent events in the region.

Fun Fact

A Unique Development in the Conflict

Interestingly, the conflict gave rise to a new term, "Black September," which became synonymous with the conflict of September 1970 and has since been used to describe various other events related to Palestinian activism and counter-terrorism.