Suez Crisis Timeline

Suez Crisis Timeline

26 July, 1956

After the United States and Britain refuse to help fund the Aswan Dam project, President Nasser announces the nationalization of Suez Canal.

16 August, 1956

22 nations meet in London to discuss the status of the Suez Canal. President Nasser refuses to attend. No agreement is reached.

9 September, 1956

Nasser officially rejects international management of the canal.

24 October, 1956

Britain France and Israel agree a plan codenamed Operation Musketeer.

29 October, 1956

Israel invades Gaza Strip and Sinai Peninsula and moves  towards the canal zone.

31 October, 1956

Britain and France begin bombing campaign to force reopening of the canal. Nasser responds by sinking 40 ships.

2 November, 1956

Calls for a ceasefire are rejected by Britain and France. Canada pushes for a United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF) to secure the peace in Egypt. The United States pushes for a ceasefire as concern grows that the Soviets may crush an uprising in Hungary in retaliation.                 

5 November, 1956

Anglo-French forces land at Port Said.668 British and 470 French paratroopers secure two bridges over the canal.                
7 November, 1956

US pushes through a UN ceasefire. Britain and France are forced to comply after America refuses to assist. UN forces are sent to replace the Anglo-French paratroopers.

21 November, 1956

UN troops land in Egypt.

23 November, 1956

Under heavy pressure from the United States, Britain begins a military withdrawal from Egypt.

23 December, 1956

British and French withdrawal completed. UN forces now control the Suez Canal. Egyptians celebrate in the streets, chanting, "long live Nasser.”                       

9 January, 1957

British Prime Minister Sir Anthony Eden resigns, citing health issues.