On September 13, 1940, during World War II, Italian forces launched an invasion of British-controlled Egypt from their colony in Libya. This marked the beginning of the Western Desert Campaign in North Africa. The invasion was part of Italy's broader strategy to expand its influence in North Africa and secure control over the Suez Canal, a vital route for British shipping.

Led by Marshal Rodolfo Graziani, the Italian army advanced into Egypt with the goal of capturing key positions and pushing the British forces back towards the Nile. However, despite initial successes, the Italian advance stalled due to logistical difficulties, poor planning, and strong resistance from the British forces.

This invasion set the stage for a series of engagements between the Axis and Allied forces in North Africa, culminating in the significant battles of the Western Desert Campaign, such as the Battle of El Alamein. The North African theater would become one of the critical fronts in the war, with both sides pouring resources and troops into the region over the next few years.

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