October 29–31, 1956 · Sinai Peninsula Theater
October 29–31, 1956
Israel's opening move in Operation Kadesh: Colonel Ariel Sharon's 202nd Parachute Brigade dropped near the eastern end of the Mitla Pass deep in the Sinai — 32 miles east of the Suez Canal. The paratroopers were lightly armed and isolated, waiting for ground forces to link up. Sharon, in direct defiance of his orders, sent a patrol into the narrow pass — triggering a ferocious Egyptian ambush. Israeli casualties were severe. Despite the tactical blunder, the Israeli position held and the pass was secured by October 31. Sharon and Dayan clashed bitterly over the unauthorized attack.
Commanders