Israel’s Haifa Honors Indian Soldiers Who Liberated the City in World War I

On September 29, 2025, Haifa, Israel, commemorated a historic moment by honoring Indian soldiers who played a pivotal role in liberating the city from Ottoman rule during World War I. The city's Mayor Yona Yahav announced that history textbooks in Haifa would be revised to correctly acknowledge that it was Indian troops, not the British, who liberated the city. He stated, "In every school, we are changing the texts and saying that it wasn't the British but the Indians who liberated us."

The Battle of Haifa: A Turning Point in World War I

The Battle of Haifa, fought on September 23, 1918, was a significant cavalry engagement during World War I. The 15th (Imperial Service) Cavalry Brigade, comprising Indian regiments from the princely states of Jodhpur, Mysore, and Hyderabad, alongside British units, launched a daring attack on the Ottoman forces occupying Haifa. The Indian cavalry, including the Jodhpur Lancers, played a crucial role in the assault, leading to the city's liberation.

Strategic Importance of Haifa

Haifa was a strategic port city on the eastern Mediterranean coast, vital for controlling the region's maritime routes and supply lines. Its capture was essential for the Allied forces to disrupt the Ottoman Empire's control over the area and to facilitate further military operations in the Middle East.

The Assault on Haifa

The 15th Cavalry Brigade was tasked with capturing Haifa from the Ottoman defenders. The Jodhpur Lancers led the mounted assault, charging through Ottoman defenses. Simultaneously, the Mysore Lancers and British artillery units provided support by silencing enemy gun positions and clearing obstacles. Despite facing intense machine gun and artillery fire, the cavalry units pressed forward, demonstrating exceptional bravery and determination.

The battle culminated in the capture of Haifa, with the Allied forces taking approximately 1,350 prisoners, including German and Ottoman soldiers, and seizing 17 artillery guns, 11 machine guns, and a 6-inch naval gun. The Jodhpur Lancers suffered casualties, with 8 killed and 34 wounded, along with 60 horses killed and 83 injured.

Major Thakur Dalpat Singh: The Hero of Haifa

Major Thakur Dalpat Singh of the Jodhpur Lancers emerged as a prominent figure during this battle. His leadership and bravery were instrumental in the success of the operation. Tragically, he was killed in action during the battle and was posthumously awarded the Military Cross. He is remembered as the "Hero of Haifa" for his exemplary courage and sacrifice.

Dalpat Singh was born into a noble family in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. He joined the Jodhpur Lancers and served with distinction in various campaigns. At the time of the Battle of Haifa, he was leading his regiment in the assault on the city. His actions during the battle exemplified the valor and commitment of the Indian cavalry units in World War I.

Legacy and Commemoration

The bravery of the Indian soldiers, particularly the Jodhpur Lancers, in the Battle of Haifa has been commemorated in both Israel and India. In Israel, the city's history textbooks have been revised to acknowledge that it was Indian soldiers, not the British, who liberated Haifa from Ottoman rule. The city honors the Indian heroes for their sacrifice, with plaques and memorials dedicated to their memory.

In India, the Battle of Haifa is celebrated as Haifa Day on September 23 each year. The Jodhpur and Mysore Lancers, now represented by the 61st Cavalry Regiment in the Indian Army, continue to commemorate the battle, honoring the legacy of their predecessors.

Recognition and Revision of History

For many years, history incorrectly credited the British forces with Haifa's liberation. Recent research highlighted the Indian soldiers’ central role in this victory. Mayor Yahav emphasized that acknowledging their contribution is a matter of historical justice. The revision of textbooks aims to honor these unsung heroes and educate future generations about their sacrifice and courage.

This acknowledgment also strengthens the historical and diplomatic bond between Israel and India, reflecting mutual respect and shared heritage.

Indian Soldiers in World War I

The contribution of Indian soldiers in World War I was extensive but often overlooked. Around 1.5 million Indian men served in various theaters of war, including Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Over 74,000 soldiers lost their lives, and many were decorated for their bravery. Their role in the Battle of Haifa is a shining example of their dedication and heroism, showing how Indian troops were crucial to Allied victories in key battles.

The decision by Haifa to revise its history textbooks is a powerful gesture of recognition for the Indian soldiers who liberated the city. It not only corrects historical inaccuracies but also honors the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of these soldiers. The story of the Battle of Haifa stands as a lasting testament to the courage of Indian troops in World War I and their enduring legacy.