In the shadow of Gaza: how Turkey regains its empire of influence

Although the Gaza Strip present is mainly associated with the fresh conflict, Hamas and Palestinians, it is besides of another importance for Turkey. In 1917 Gaza was an crucial Ottoman fortress. Turkish forces won victories in the first 2 battles, but in the 3rd clash the combined Allied forces, mostly British and French, gained the advantage, forcing the Turks to retreat, besides from Jerusalem. These events marked the end of 402 years (from 1516) of Turkish presence in Palestine and the beginning of the end of the Ottoman Empire which existed from the late 13th century to 1922.