The Six Day War represents a watershed moment that fundamentally altered Palestinian lives and the Middle East. From a Palestinian solidarity perspective, this was not a defensive war but a calculated expansion of Israeli control over Palestinian land, resulting in the occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem that continues today.
The Six Day War was not merely a brief military conflict but a calculated expansion that established the occupation lasting lifetimes. As Ilan Pappé reveals, Israel had long contemplated occupying the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and the war provided the opportunity to realize these territorial ambitions. The myth of defensive necessity obscures the reality of premeditated expansion and the ongoing denial of Palestinian rights.
The Six Day War represents a watershed moment that fundamentally altered Palestinian lives and the Middle East. From a Palestinian solidarity perspective, this was not a defensive war but a calculated expansion of Israeli control over Palestinian land, resulting in the occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem that continues today.
The Six Day War was not merely a brief military conflict but a calculated expansion that established the occupation lasting lifetimes. As Ilan Pappé reveals, Israel had long contemplated occupying the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and the war provided the opportunity to realize these territorial ambitions. The myth of defensive necessity obscures the reality of premeditated expansion and the ongoing denial of Palestinian rights.
Israeli occupation of West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem begins
Over 413,000 Palestinians displaced in the "Naksa"
+3 more outcomes & impacts
Israel launched coordinated air strikes against Egyptian airfields, destroying most of Egypt's air force on the ground. This marked the beginning of what Palestinians call the "Naksa" (setback), challenging the narrative of defensive war.
Egyptian forces begin retreating from the Sinai Peninsula following the devastating air strikes. The rapid collapse challenges narratives of existential threat to Israel.
Despite Israeli assurances through UN mediators that Israel would not attack Jordan if it stayed out of the conflict, Jordan and Syria join the war in solidarity with Egypt.
Israeli troops encircle East Jerusalem, beginning the process that would lead to the occupation and later illegal annexation of the city. This marked the beginning of Israel's control over all of historic Palestine.
Multiple Palestinian civilian casualties as Israeli forces advance
Israeli forces complete the capture of the Gaza Strip, bringing the territory and its Palestinian population under Israeli military occupation for the first time since 1948.
Estimated Palestinian casualties during Gaza occupation
Israeli forces capture the Old City of Jerusalem, including Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock. This represents not just territorial loss but a deep spiritual and cultural wound for Palestinians.
Jordanian forces complete their withdrawal from the West Bank, leaving the Palestinian population under Israeli military occupation. This begins the occupation that continues to this day.
Estimated Palestinian casualties during West Bank occupation
Israeli forces complete the capture of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, reaching the Suez Canal. This gave Israel control over strategic territory and demonstrated the rapid collapse of Arab forces.
Egypt formally accepts the UN-sponsored ceasefire, effectively ending its participation in the war. The speed of defeat shocked the Arab world and exposed the weakness of conventional Arab military forces.
Despite ceasefire agreements with Egypt and Jordan, Israel launches attack on Syrian Golan Heights, demonstrating the expansionist nature of the campaign beyond defensive necessity.
Israeli forces capture the Syrian town of Kuneitra in the Golan Heights, completing the territorial conquests of the war. The population was largely expelled, creating more refugees.
Syrian and Palestinian civilians displaced from Golan Heights
Final ceasefire brings the Six Day War to an end. Israel now controls all of historic Palestine, plus the Sinai Peninsula and Golan Heights. Over 300,000 Palestinians are displaced in what becomes known as the "Naksa."
Approximately 413,000 Palestinians displaced during the war, with 280,000-325,000 from West Bank alone
In crucial cabinet meetings on June 19-20, Israel makes three key decisions: keep the West Bank and Gaza under Israeli rule, allow Palestinians to remain without citizenship, and maintain this status indefinitely. This reveals the permanent nature of the occupation.
UN Security Council adopts Resolution 242, emphasizing "the inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by war" and calling for Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories. Israel's interpretation focuses on withdrawal from "territories" rather than "the territories."