What Happened Today?
On May 17, 1948, the Soviet Union diplomatically recognized the newly declared State of Israel, a significant event occurring just days after Israel’s independence was proclaimed. In military actions, Israeli forces liberated the towns of Acre, Nebi Yusha, and Telel-Kadi during the ongoing 1948 Arab-Israeli War.
- Diplomatic Recognition: The Soviet Union was the first country to officially recognize Israel’s government, granting it de jure recognition shortly after the country’s establishment on May 14, 1948.
- Military Action: Israeli forces secured control of several locations, including the towns of Acre, Nebi Yusha, and Telel-Kadi, as part of the fighting in the region.
- World Chess Championship: The 1948 World Chess Championship tournament concluded on this date in The Hague and Moscow, with Mikhail Botvinnik winning the title.