Assault on Rutbah Fort (1941)

The Assault on Rutbah Fort was a military action that took place in May 1941 during the Anglo-Iraqi War. Rutbah Fort was a strategic outpost in western Iraq, located along the main supply route between Iraq and Transjordan. The fort was garrisoned by Iraqi forces loyal to Rashid Ali al-Gaylani, who had recently overthrown the pro-British government in Baghdad.

British forces, primarily elements of the Arab Legion under Glubb Pasha and mechanized units of Habforce, were tasked with securing the fort to re-establish control over the vital road and prevent the Iraqi rebels from gaining further momentum. The garrison at Rutbah Fort was significantly larger than the initial British attacking force.

The assault began with an aerial bombardment by the Royal Air Force (RAF), aiming to weaken the fort's defenses. Following the air strikes, ground forces launched an attack. The Iraqi defenders put up a stiff resistance, but were ultimately overcome by the superior firepower and tactical skill of the British-led forces. The Arab Legion played a key role in the battle, utilizing their knowledge of the terrain and local conditions.

The capture of Rutbah Fort was a significant victory for the British, as it secured a crucial supply line and disrupted Iraqi rebel operations in the region. It also demoralized the Iraqi forces and contributed to the eventual collapse of Rashid Ali's government. The assault is noted for its relatively small scale but significant strategic impact in the larger context of the Anglo-Iraqi War and World War II. Casualties were relatively light on both sides.