In Syria... At 0200 hours British and Free French forces invade Syria. The British have been increasingly worried by reports of a German presence in Syria in recent weeks. In fact, all German military personnel have now left at the request of Vichy authorities. The attacking force is commanded by General Wilson and includes 7th Australian Division, 4th Indian Brigade and Free French units (including Circassian cavalry, under Col. Collet, in the vanguard of the Free French forces). The defending Vichy forces consist of 45,000 men under the command of General Dentz. The Allied force advances along several lines from positions in Palestine and Transjordan. There is little resistance at first. General Catroux, who has been appointed by General de Gaulle to head the Free French forces, issues a proclamation calling optimistically for Dentz and his men to change sides. The British announce that they seek no territorial gains.

In Egypt... In response to the threat of air raids on Alexandria, the evacuation of about 40,000 people begins.