The Capture of the Old City of Jerusalem: June 7, 1967

On June 7, 1967, during the third day of the Six-Day War, Israeli forces achieved a significant military and symbolic victory by capturing the Old City of Jerusalem. This event was a pivotal moment in the conflict between Israel and its neighboring Arab states, dramatically altering the region’s geopolitical and cultural landscape.

Context and Background

The Six-Day War broke out on June 5, 1967, following escalating tensions between Israel and its Arab neighbors, including Egypt, Jordan, and Syria. The conflict was sparked by a series of aggressive moves and military posturing, particularly by Egypt, which included the closure of the Straits of Tiran to Israeli shipping and the mobilization of Egyptian forces in the Sinai Peninsula. In response, Israel launched a preemptive strike against Egyptian airfields, effectively crippling the Egyptian Air Force and setting the stage for rapid territorial advances.

The Battle for East Jerusalem

As part of the wider military operations, Israeli forces directed their focus on East Jerusalem, which was then under Jordanian control. The capture of the Old City was assigned to the 55th Paratroopers Brigade, commanded by Motta Gur.

In the early hours of June 7, Israeli paratroopers engaged in fierce combat with Jordanian forces who were defending the Old City. By late morning, Israeli forces managed to breach the walls of the city through the Lions’ Gate. The capture of the Old City culminated with the significant moment when Israeli soldiers reached the Western Wall, a site sacred in Judaism.

Historical Significance

The capture of the Old City of Jerusalem was not only a tactical victory but also held immense religious and cultural significance for Israel, marking the first time the city was under Jewish control since antiquity. It symbolized the reunification of Jerusalem and sparked celebrations throughout Israel.

Aftermath and Consequences

The successful capture of Jerusalem, along with other territorial gains during the war, had several long-lasting consequences:

• Territorial Changes: Israel more than tripled its size, acquiring the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, East Jerusalem, the Sinai Peninsula, and the Golan Heights.
• Political and Diplomatic Impact: The outcome of the war dramatically altered the political landscape of the Middle East, leading to an increase in regional tensions and contributing to the enduring Arab-Israeli conflict.
• Religious and Cultural Implications: The capture of the Old City remains a profound moment in Jewish history and has continued to influence political discourse and the city’s status in subsequent peace negotiations.

The events of June 7, 1967, remain a highly significant and often contentious part of the broader historical narrative of the Middle East.