October 15 1948 – 12 Tishrei 5709
In an attempt to re-establish contact with the southern settlements in the Negev, the Israeli army commenced Operation Yoav, aka Operation Ten Plagues, during Israel’s War of Independence. The Egyptian army had invaded the new state the day after it declared its independence, cutting the Negev off from the rest of the country. Communications with the whole south of the country was reduced to radio contact and air-drops for essential supplies. In a three pronged operation, the Negev, Givati and Yiftah Brigades captured Egyptian outposts, while the air-force bombed Egyptian targets and gained control of the skies and the tiny Israeli navy attacked Egyptian supply ships. By October 22, the Negev was once again within reach, and the city of Beer Sheba had been conquered, although the Egyptian army presence still posed a major threat.