Phases of the Second World War in Djebel Trozza: Where the World Converged on Tunisian Soil during the Tunisian Campaign (1942–1943)

Abstract The area of Djebel Trozza (Djebel Trozza) and the Fondouk el Aouareb Gap in central Tunisia (Kairouan Governorate) constituted a microcosm of the “convergence of the world” during the Tunisian Campaign (November 1942 – May 1943), the final phase of combat in North Africa. This mountainous region, where Djebel Trozza (elevation 997 m) overlooks Oued Merguellil and the main routes to Kairouan, represented a strategically vital sector within the Eastern Dorsale. The conflict began with the rapid German airborne occupation (November 1942), facilitated by a massive air bridge that delivered reinforcements to Tunisian airfields, utilising Djebel Trozza as an observation point. The area experienced early Allied air losses (including the crash of Foy Draper’s aircraft in January 1943). In February–March, the Axis consolidated its defences following the Kasserine offensive, and the first American assault on the Gap (27–31 March) failed under fire from the heights. In April, the second combined assault (8–10 April), led by the British IX Corps, succeeded in capturing Djebel Aïn el Rhorab and opening the Gap, despite tensions between American and British forces. This contributed to Axis collapse, complemented by the Allied air operation Flax, culminating in the surrender of 250,000 Axis troops on 13 May 1943. The region brought together American, British, German, Italian, and French forces, alongside local Tunisian inhabitants whose oral testimonies describe sudden clashes, scavenging, and the dismantling of wreckage. The battles highlighted lessons in mountain warfare, Allied coordination, and the role of air power. Today, Djebel Trozza remains a symbol of Tunisia’s wartime heritage, warranting documentation and preservation.