#OTD20 | October 31, 1956

The Suez Crisis Escalates: UK and France Launch Operation Musketeer

October 31, 1956: The United Kingdom and France commence bombing runs over Egypt, signaling a pivotal escalation in the Suez Crisis.

The Suez Canal, a critical waterway connecting the Mediterranean to the Red Sea, was seized and nationalized by Egypt's President Nasser in July 1956, prompting concern among Western powers and Israel.

In a bid to regain control and ensure the canal remains open for international navigation, Britain and France initiate military action, marking a major confrontation in the Cold War era.

"The freedom of navigation through the Suez Canal is vital not only to Great Britain and France but to the whole free world." - Statement by UK and French governments, 1956

The Suez Crisis highlights the diminishing global influence of European colonial powers, while also emphasizing the rising role of the United States and the Soviet Union as arbiters of international disputes.

Today, the events surrounding the Suez Crisis remain a testament to the complexities of global politics during the mid-20th century and the intricacies of maintaining peace in a divided world.