What was the primary objective of Operation Torch?

The primary objective of Operation Torch was to capture ports in French Morocco and Algeria. This operation, initiated on November 8, 1942, marked America’s first major involvement in the European theater during World War II. By landing forces in North Africa, the Allies aimed to secure key ports that would enable them to establish a more prominent military presence in the region.

Capturing these ports provided crucial supply lines and opportunities to engage Axis powers in North Africa. It also aimed to ultimately push eastward towards Tunisia to connect with British forces and curb Axis advances in that area. The successful execution of Operation Torch laid the groundwork for subsequent Allied operations in North Africa and eventually led to the invasion of Italy, which further illustrated its significance in the overall strategy of the Allies during the war.