What was the name of the Israeli operation to cross the Suez Canal in 1973?

The Israeli operation to cross the Suez Canal in 1973 was codenamed Operation Gazelle.

The operation began on October 15, during the Israeli counteroffensive in the Yom Kippur War. Israeli forces exploited a gap between Egypt's Second and Third Armies near Deversoir, sent troops across the canal, and established a bridgehead on the western bank. The crossing shifted the strategic balance after Egypt's successful opening offensive.

Operation Gazelle is also known by other names, especially Operation Abirey-Lev or Abirey-Halev, translated as “Stouthearted Men,” “Valiant,” or “Knights of the Heart.” These overlapping names can cause confusion: Gazelle is the codename, while Abirey-Lev is the Hebrew operational name commonly used in historical accounts.

Ariel Sharon's 143rd Division helped open and secure the crossing area, while other Israeli divisions moved through the corridor. The advance eventually placed the Egyptian Third Army in a vulnerable position, helping produce the diplomatic pressure that ended the war.