The Suez Canal Crisis

Introduction
The Suez Canal Crisis, also known as the Suez Crisis or Tripartite Aggression,
occurred in 1956 and was a significant event in the history of decolonization
and international relations. It involved a military intervention by Israel,
followed by Britain and France, against Egypt's decision to nationalize the Suez
Canal. Here's a detailed explanation of the Suez Canal Crisis:

Background
The Suez Canal
The Suez Canal is a crucial waterway connecting the Mediterranean Sea
to the Red Sea. It was constructed in the 19th century and was jointly owned
by the British and French. In 1888, Suez Canal declared as neutral zone for
international use by an agreement. It played a vital role in international trade
and facilitated maritime transportation between Europe and Asia.
Egyptian Nationalism
Following years of British colonial rule, Egyptian nationalism began to rise
in the early 20th century. Gamal Abdel Nasir, a prominent nationalist and
military officer, came to power as Egypt's second president in 1954. Nasser
sought to assert Egypt's sovereignty and pursued policies that aimed to
reduce foreign influence. France supplied fighter aircraft to Israel in 1954.
Nasir also began to look for arms. He received weapons from Russian in 1955
as American refused to provide. USA and Britain refused to give aid to Nasir
for Aswan High Dam because he accepted military aid from Russian block.

Nationalization of the Suez Canal

On July 26, 1956, Nasser announced the nationalization of the Suez Canal
Company, which had previously been jointly administered by the British and
French. This move aimed to declare Egyptian control over the canal and use its
revenue to fund the construction of the Aswan High Dam, an ambitious
infrastructure project.
Western Response
The nationalization of the Suez Canal was met with strong opposition
from Britain and France. Most of the oil from Middle East reached Europe
through this route and their much of industry depend on this oil. They feared
losing control over a crucial waterway and sought to protect their influence in
the region. Britain wanted to solve this issue as soon as possible. USA against
any sort of invasion because they could not want to take any step-in cold war
that would lead Arab countries toward Soviet Bloc.

Israeli Attack
In this situation, Britain, France and Israel signed a secrete protocol
(agreement) that Israel will attack first and then Britain and France interven.
Taking advantage of the tense situation, Israel, which had longstanding
disputes with Egypt, decided to take military action. On October 29, 1956,
Israeli forces launched a surprise attack into the Sinai Peninsula, quickly
advancing towards the Suez Canal.
British and French Intervention
In a coordinated plan, Britain and France issued demands to both Egypt and
Israel, demanding a ceasefire and withdrawal from the canal zone. However,
their intentions were not to mediate the conflict but rather to justify their own
military intervention.

Western Military Intervention

When Egypt rejected the ultimatum, Britain and France launched air
strikes on Egyptian military targets on October 31, 1956. They also deployed
ground forces to occupy the Suez Canal Zone.
International Backlash
The military intervention by Britain and France faced widespread
international criticism. The United States, the Soviet Union, and other
countries criticized the invasion as a violation of international law and an
attempt to maintain colonial dominance.
Resolution and Aftermath
International pressure, including economic pressure and the threat of
United Nations (UN) action, led to a ceasefire on November 6, 1956.
UN Intervention
The Suez Crisis prompted UN intervention, with the establishment of the
United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF) to oversee the withdrawal of foreign
troops from the canal zone and ensure peace and stability in the region.
Long-Term Implications
The Suez Canal Crisis had significant consequences. It marked the decline
of Britain and France as major colonial powers, highlighting the shifting
balance of power in the post-World War II era. It also solidified Nasir's
position as a prominent Arab leader and symbolized the struggle for
decolonization and sovereignty in the global South.

In conclusion, the Suez Canal Crisis was a pivotal event that exposed the limits
of Western colonial power and highlighted the ambitions of newly
independent nations. It proved the purpose of Egypt's leader, Gamal Abdel
Nasir, to assert national sovereignty, while also revealing the complexities of
international relations during the decolonization period.