Israel’s Response to Military Provocation: A Historical Analysis

Israel has often been accused of initiating conflicts in the Middle East without proper provocation. However, a detailed examination of historical events reveals a different narrative. This analysis evaluates instances where Israel has been forced to defend itself, highlighting those situations where provocation was a significant factor.

1967 Six Day War: The Prelude to Conflict

The 1967 Six Day War is a notable example, often cited as a case of Israel taking military action against an adversary. However, the backdrop of this conflict reveals a series of provocative actions by Egypt, Syria, and Jordan.

1. Blockade of the Suez Canal: Egypt had blocked the Suez Canal to Israeli vessels, a direct and hostile action that threatened Israeli trade and naval access.

2. Request for UN Observers Withdrawal: Egypt demanded the UN emergency observers to leave the Sinai Peninsula, signaling a hostile intent.

3. Troop Concentration in Sinai and Golan Heights: Both Egypt and Syria amassed their armies near the Israeli borders, setting a clear pre-emptive threat.

Action Taken by Israel: Facing such provocations, Israel was forced to take preemptive action. The Israeli government under Golda Meir decided to strike first to prevent what it perceived as a looming attack. This decision prevented a larger conflict that could have resulted in a direct assault on Israel.

1973 Yom Kippur War: A Complex Scenario

The 1973 Yom Kippur War presented a different narrative. Israel was caught off guard, but it was a strategic premeditated attack by multiple Arab states—Egypt, Syria, and to some extent, Jordan. This war was a response to years of tension and the buildup of Arab troops along Israel’s borders.

Initial Provocation: The actions of the Arab states were heavily fueled by a series of incendiary statements from Nasser and the movement of Egyptian troops to the Israeli border during the Yom Kippur holiday. Similarly, Syrian forces began the war by bombing Israeli settlements from the Golan Heights.

Israel’s response was to counter these attacks, leading to a wider conflict.

The Lebanon Conflict of the 1980s: Addressing Intermittent Attacks

The 1980s saw Israel's military intervention in Lebanon primarily in response to attacks by the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). In 1982, Israel invaded Lebanon due to years of incessant attacks from the PLO on northern Israel. However, after a ceasefire agreement, the PLO moved out to Tunisia, leading Israel to withdraw.

The 1956 Suez War: An Example of External Influence

The 1956 Suez War is often mistaken as a direct provocation by Israel against Egypt. However, it was more of an opportunity seized by Britain and France to resolve their own geopolitical conflicts.

The conflict was triggered when Egyptian President Nasser nationalized the Suez Canal, leading to tension between Britain and France, who were intent on restoring control over the canal. While Israel was involved, it was not the primary aggressor in this war.

Conclusion

Israel has not been the aggressor in any conflict where it was involved. Each time, the actions were a result of significant and clear provocations from its adversaries. From the blockade of the Suez Canal to the constant attacks by the PLO, Israel acted defensively, ensuring it only took military action after prolonged provocations.

Understanding the historical context and the specific provocations that led to military actions can provide a clearer picture of Israel's actions in conflicts, highlighting a consistent pattern of defense rather than aggression.