On the eternal anniversary of the Battle of Al-Karama, the commitment to sacrifice, perseverance, and determination is renewed. This victory reshaped reality, restored the nation's dignity, and built a solid foundation for a prosperous future. March 21, 1968, remains a day embodying the highest values of patience, martyrdom, and hope.
The Historical Context and Strategic Goals
At dawn on March 21, 1968, the Jordanian Armed Forces (Arab Army) stood firm against an Israeli aggression aimed at shattering Jordan's military capabilities following the 1967 war.
While Israel claimed its objective was to destroy resistance bases in the town of Al-Karama, its true strategic goals included:
• Occupying the Eastern Heights (Balqa) and approaching the capital, Amman, to force a surrender.
• Expanding borders by seizing Jordanian territory east of the river for strategic depth.
• Securing the ceasefire line and demoralizing the Jordanian population in the Ghor (Jordan Valley) region.
The Battlefield and Combat Axes
The Jordan Valley, a vital economic and agricultural artery, served as the theater of operations. The Israeli forces launched their attack along four main axes (approaches):
1. Al-Arda Axis: From Prince Mohammed Bridge (Damiya) toward Salt.
2. Wadi Shueib Axis: From King Hussein Bridge toward Salt.
3. Suwayma Axis: From Prince Abdullah Bridge toward Na'ur and Amman.
4. Ghor al-Safi Axis: South of the Dead Sea toward Karak.
Forces and Maneuvers
The Jordanian Arab Army, led by the late King Hussein bin Talal, was represented by the 1st Infantry Division, supported by the 60th Royal Armored Brigade and Royal Artillery. Despite the Israeli forces' superiority in air power and armor, the Jordanian artillery played a decisive role in destroying the bridges, isolating the invading forces east of the river, and stripping them of the element of surprise.
The Ceasefire Request
By 11:30 AM, just five hours into the fierce fighting, Israel requested a ceasefire. However, the late King Hussein famously refused, stating: "There will be no ceasefire as long as a single Israeli soldier remains east of the river." This firm stance forced the battle to continue for 16 hours until a decisive Jordanian victory was achieved.
Outcome and Casualties
The battle resulted in a crushing defeat for the Israeli forces, who were forced to withdraw, leaving behind destroyed equipment on the battlefield for the first time.
• Jordanian Forces: 88 martyrs and 108 wounded.
• Israeli Forces: 250 killed and 450 wounded; 88 vehicles destroyed (including 47 tanks) and 7 fighter jets downed.
Historical Testimonies
• The Daily Telegraph: "The Israelis made a disastrous miscalculation... they faced much stiffer resistance than they expected."
• Newsweek: "The Jordanian army resisted with ferocity and determination... making King Hussein a hero of the Arab world."
• Marshal Grechko (USSR): "The Battle of Al-Karama was a turning point in Arab military history."
Source: Petra
