Battle of Merdjayoun

Part of the Syria-Lebanon Campaign of World War II

Command post of the Australian 2/6th Field Regiment during fighting against the French in the Merdjayoun sector

Date	19–24 June 1941
Location	Marjayoun, French Lebanon
Result	Allied victory

Belligerents

United Kingdom

British India

Australia

Vichy France

French Lebanon

Commanders and leaders

Major General Arthur Samuel Allen

United Kingdom

Vichy France

The Battle of Merdjayoun took place during the Syria-Lebanon Campaign of World War II from 19–24 June 1941 between Vichy French and predominantly Australian Allied forces in and near the Lebanese town of Marjayoun.

Australian forces advancing from the British Mandate of Palestine entered Marjayoun on 11 June 1941 against badly equipped defenders, after which the majority of the Australian 25th Brigade was diverted north to attack Jezzine, leaving a small force based around the 2/33rd Battalion to hold Merdjayoun. Following a strong Vichy French counterattack, this garrison was forced to withdraw south on 15 June. In the ensuing battle, Allied troops successfully defended the pass leading back to Palestine, and recaptured the town early on 24 June. The 7th Australian Division—commanded by Major-General Arthur "Tubby" Allen—was reinforced by units from the 6th Australian Division.

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