Battle of Damascus (1941)

The Battle of Damascus, fought in June 1941, was a major engagement during the Syria-Lebanon campaign of World War II. It was a key part of Operation Exporter, the Allied invasion of French-held Syria and Lebanon. The battle pitted Allied forces, primarily composed of Australian, British, and Free French troops, against Vichy French forces loyal to the German-supported government.

The objective was to secure Damascus, the capital of Syria, and deny the Axis powers a foothold in the region which could threaten British interests in the Middle East, especially the Suez Canal and oil supplies.

The Allied advance on Damascus was led by the 21st Australian Brigade. Fierce resistance was encountered from the Vichy French, who were well-entrenched and equipped with tanks, artillery, and aircraft. The fighting was particularly intense in the Merdjayoun area, north of Damascus, and along the road leading to the city.

Despite suffering casualties, the Allied forces steadily pushed back the Vichy French defenders. A flanking maneuver by the Free French forces under General Legentilhomme played a crucial role in breaking the Vichy French resistance.

Damascus fell to the Allies on June 21, 1941. The capture of the city marked a significant victory for the Allies in the Syria-Lebanon campaign and contributed to the eventual defeat of the Vichy French forces in the region. The battle resulted in casualties on both sides, and the Vichy French defeat led to the end of their control over Syria and Lebanon, which were subsequently placed under Allied administration.