Soldier in the Sinai

Main Themes and Topics

In Soldier in the Sinai, Major General Emanuel Sakal delves into the complexities of military strategy and leadership during the Yom Kippur War. The book primarily focuses on the operational and strategic decisions that led to the defensive failures in the initial phase of the conflict. Sakal highlights the inefficacy of the Israeli Defense Forces' (IDF) pre-war strategy known as "the regulars will hold," which assumed that the IDF regulars, along with air support, could repel the Arab forces without immediate full mobilization. The author also tackles issues such as the failure of air support, inadequacies in tank warfare, and the critical delay in mobilizing reserves, offering a nuanced understanding of these operational shortcomings.

Writing Style and Tone

Emanuel Sakal's writing style in Soldier in the Sinai is meticulous and analytical, providing readers with an in-depth critique of military strategies and decisions. His tone is authoritative and insightful, reflecting his extensive experience in military operations and his role as a commander during the war. Sakal's use of operations research, simulation, and war games adds a layer of technical precision to the narrative. The book's scholarly approach offers a balance between detailed empirical analysis and accessible storytelling, making complex military concepts understandable to both lay readers and defense experts.

Brief Summary

Soldier in the Sinai offers a comprehensive examination of Israel's defensive efforts during the initial stages of the Yom Kippur War. Major General Emanuel Sakal appraises the military and political decisions that resulted in Israel's inability to effectively counter the Egyptian and Syrian surprise attacks in October 1973. The book scrutinizes the IDF's reliance on outdated strategies, the execution of air and ground tactics, and the logistical missteps that compounded the challenges faced by Israeli forces. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, Sakal provides a critique of the early battles, bringing to light the tactical errors and strategic oversights that influenced the course of the conflict.