October 29 – November 5, 1956 · Sinai Peninsula Theater

Israel's armored columns race across the Sinai in a coordinated plan with Britain and France. The paratroopers of the 202nd Brigade drop near the Mitla Pass while armored columns sweep along multiple axes. Egyptian units retreat in disorder, and Israel captures the entire Sinai Peninsula in 8 days. The operation was secretly coordinated at Sèvres, France, where the three powers agreed Israel would attack first to provide the pretext for Anglo-French intervention.

October 31 – November 6, 1956 · Egypt Theater

British and French aircraft destroy the Egyptian Air Force on the ground, targeting airfields around Cairo, Alexandria, and the Canal Zone. The Egyptians, warned by Israeli radio intercepts that an attack was coming, had dispersed many aircraft — but the campaign still eliminates Egypt's air capability. Nasser orders the Suez Canal blocked by sinking 47 ships.

November 5–6, 1956 · Suez Canal Zone Theater

British and French paratroopers drop on Port Said while amphibious forces storm the beaches in an operation that recalls World War II. Egyptian resistance is fierce — civilians join the defense with weapons from army armories. The Anglo-French force captures the city but halts when the UN ceasefire comes into effect. They have advanced just 23 miles down the Canal when they are ordered to stop.