DEPOIMENTOS

Israeli soldiers sit at the Western Wall, Judaism's holiest site,

after capturing Jerusalem's Old City during the Six-Day War in June 1967

Gen Moshe Dayan (L) , Gen Haim Bar Lev & PM Levi Eshkol (R)

An Israeli troop carrier drives towards the Dome of

the Rock Mosque in the Al Aqsa Mosque Compound,

known to Jews as the Temple Mount,

after capturing Jerusalem's Old City

in the Six-Day War in June 1967

In this combination of two photos, Israeli army paratroopers Zion Karasanti, left, Yitzhak Yifat, centre, and Haim Oshri, right, stand next to the Western Wall, Judaism holiest site, in Jerusalem's Old City after it was captured during the Six Day War on June 7, 1967, left, and 40 years later, May 16, 200. The image on the left is etched in history - an iconic photo that captured Israel in its most triumphant moment. Three young, battle-worn faces gazing up in wonder at the Western Wall, moments after capturing Judaism's holiest site in the Six-Day War.

The so-called Six Day War ends on this day, as an outnumbered Israel defeats its Arab antagonists and greatly expands its borders. On June 5, 1967, Israel responded to a build-up of Arab forces along its borders by launching simultaneous attacks against Egypt and Syria. Jordan subsequently entered the fray, but the Arab coalition was no match for Israel's proficient armed forces. When the Six-Day War ended on June 10, Israel suddenly had control of territory three times its original size. However, the true fruits of victory came in claiming the old city of Jerusalem from Jordan. Many wept while bent in prayer at the Western Wall of the Second Temple. Arab leaders, forced to accept a U.N. cease-fire, met in August to discuss the future of Israel. They decided upon a policy of no peace, no negotiations, and no recognition of Israel, and made plans to zealously defend the rights of Palestinian Arabs in the occupied territories.

Israeli Gunboat passing through the Straits of Tiran near Sharm el Shaikh.

Israeli soldiers celebrate in the Sinai Peninsula during the Six-Day War in June 1967.

Egyptian prisoners are guarded by Israeli troops after being captured near

Al Arish in the Sinai during the Six-Day War in June 1967.