Exhibition showcases French role in Arab Revolt

AMMAN — A photo exhibition currently under way at the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts showcases the role of the French military in the Great Arab Revolt between 1916 and 1918.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Revolt against Ottoman rule, led by Sharif Hussein Bin Ali, the fourth ancestor of His Majesty King Abdullah.

Carried out by the French embassy, the exhibition depicts interactions between Arab and French leaders and troops in Qweira, Maan and Aqaba in over 50 photos.

France decided to support the rebellion and its leader Sharif Hussein, emir of Mecca and king of Hijaz, in two missions, according to a statement by the French embassy.

The first was political and aimed at gathering pilgrims eager to perform Hajj (the greater Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca), so they would also represent the French government to Sharif Hussein.

The second mission was the establishment of an Egypt-based military mission to respond to Sharif Hussein's operational needs.

When Prince Faisal, the son of Sharif Hussein, led his army northwards in 1916, the Arab troops carried out raids on the road connecting Damascus to Medina Munawara and took control of Aqaba with the assistance of the French.

"The conquest of Aqaba is essential in the continuity of the Arab Revolt; it allows the British to supply the insurgents through its port and it isolates the Turkish forces located in Medina," the statement added.  

Although the French mission suffered from limited military equipment and staff during the Revolt, as the French detachment in 1917 comprised 47 officers and 1,127 soldiers, its logistical supports provided the Arab troops with arms and training, which were key to the successes of the army.

The exhibition continues through April 30.