The objectives of Operation "Markolet" ('Night of the Bridges')
The operation planners did not pretend they could cause substantial damage to the British, since it was clear that the British could easily restore the bridges.
The operation planners did not pretend they could cause substantial damage to the British, since it was clear that the British could easily restore the bridges. The 'Night of the Bridges' objectives were:
1. To show to the British the Yishuv's military power and operational ability throughout the land, even in desolate areas or at the center of Arab population.
2. Prove the Jews' ability to sabotage the essential transportation lines that enable the basic functioning of the British army in Israel.
3. Harm Britain's prestige as the most powerful nation in the Middle East, as well as the normal functioning of the British Mandate by cutting of Israel from its Arab neighbors.
4. Strengthen and encourage the Jewish population in Israel, which was disappointed by the rejection of Anglo-American committee's recommendations, as proof for the on-going and intensifying battle, and that the Hagana is no less active in the battle than the extremist split-groups.
The operation may have had another hidden objective, which was to show operational ability and daringness as a message to the neighboring Arab countries, whose involvement in the future of Israel was increasing.
1. To show to the British the Yishuv's military power and operational ability throughout the land, even in desolate areas or at the center of Arab population.
2. Prove the Jews' ability to sabotage the essential transportation lines that enable the basic functioning of the British army in Israel.
3. Harm Britain's prestige as the most powerful nation in the Middle East, as well as the normal functioning of the British Mandate by cutting of Israel from its Arab neighbors.
4. Strengthen and encourage the Jewish population in Israel, which was disappointed by the rejection of Anglo-American committee's recommendations, as proof for the on-going and intensifying battle, and that the Hagana is no less active in the battle than the extremist split-groups.
The operation may have had another hidden objective, which was to show operational ability and daringness as a message to the neighboring Arab countries, whose involvement in the future of Israel was increasing.