Key Facts
- Dates
- 27–31 March 1918
- Distance from front line
- 48 km (30 mi) into enemy territory
- Attacking divisions
- 60th (London) Division and Anzac Mounted Division
- Territorial gains retained
- Bridgeheads at Ghoraniyeh and Makhadet Hajlah
- Campaign context
- Part of the First Transjordan attack, Sinai and Palestine Campaign
Strategic Narrative Overview
British Empire forces crossed the fast-flowing Jordan River under fire, constructing pontoon bridges to move infantry and mounted troops eastward. After capturing Es Salt and Shunet Nimrin, the 60th (London) Division and Anzac Mounted Division advanced on Amman across difficult terrain. The Ottoman Fourth Army garrison, reinforced by arriving troops, mounted a strong defence. Despite several days of determined assaults and the arrival of British reinforcements from Es Salt, the attackers could not break through.
01 / The Origins
Following decisive victories at the Third Battle of Gaza and the Battle of Beersheba in late 1917, the Egyptian Expeditionary Force captured Jerusalem and pushed eastward into the Jordan Valley, taking Jericho in February 1918. These advances set the stage for a bold thrust across the Jordan River into Ottoman-held Transjordan, aiming to destroy sections of the Hejaz Railway and seize Amman, a key node in Ottoman communications and supply.
03 / The Outcome
Ottoman counterattacks forced the Egyptian Expeditionary Force to retreat to the Jordan Valley, relinquishing Es Salt and the approaches to Amman. The only lasting gains were bridgeheads established on the eastern bank of the Jordan at Ghoraniyeh and Makhadet Hajlah. The Hejaz Railway was not permanently severed, and Amman remained in Ottoman hands, representing a significant check on British strategic momentum in the region.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Side B
1 belligerent
Kinetic Engagement Axis
Scroll horizontally to view full axis. Events plotted relatively.