1. Historical Context:
- The conflict between Israel and its Arab neighbors had its origins in the creation of the State of Israel in 1948 and subsequent wars and conflicts.
- Tensions had been building in the region, with Egypt, Syria, and other Arab countries aligning against Israel.
2. Israeli Preemptive Strike:
- Israel launched a preemptive air strike against Egypt on June 5, 1967, in response to Egyptian troop movements and blockades. Israel perceived these actions as a threat to its security.
3. Arab Military Actions:
- Egypt, Jordan, and Syria had mobilized their military forces and positioned them near Israel's borders, threatening an imminent attack.
4. Diplomatic Failure:
- Diplomatic efforts to resolve the escalating tensions had failed, with the United Nations Security Council unable to pass a resolution calling for the withdrawal of Arab forces.
5. Regional Rivalries:
- The conflict also reflected broader regional rivalries and ideological disputes between Arab nationalist and socialist movements and Israel.
6. International Pressure:
- International pressure played a role, with the United States urging restraint from both sides while simultaneously expressing support for Israel's right to defend itself.
The outbreak of the Six-Day War was the result of a combination of factors, including historical grievances, military posturing, and failed diplomacy. While Israel did launch a preemptive strike, the actions of the Arab countries in the lead-up to the war cannot be ignored. The conflict is often seen as a complex event with shared responsibilities and multiple contributing factors.