Part 9/10:
On December 29, 1969, the Israeli boats arrived safely in Haifa, greeted by jubilation and media fanfare. The French response was muted, showcasing the government's struggle to manage national embarrassment lacked significant repercussions. Public sentiment in France largely favored Israel, as many citizens saw the operation as a clever ruse against an incompetent government.
The retrieved missile boats would subsequently transform naval warfare for Israel, especially demonstrated during the Yom Kippur War. Their role in the Battle of Latakia showcased Israel’s capacity to pursue critical national defense with audacity, regardless of the means employed.