Q&A · 3:21:42-3:22:05

Capturing Gibraltar requires Spain and Turkey

An Axis attempt to seize Gibraltar is made contingent on Spanish and Turkish participation and still faces a fortress prepared for siege.

Question

What would give the Axis its best chance of capturing Gibraltar in the Second World War?

Short answer

Spain and Turkey would need to join the Axis cause, and even then Gibraltar would remain a very difficult siege objective.

Notes

The Axis first needs Spain and Turkey aligned strongly enough to open practical access and strategic pressure. Even with those diplomatic changes, Gibraltar's fortifications, geography, and siege preparations make capture exceptionally difficult.