In a significant escalation of its military operations, Israel executed Operation Wooden Leg against the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) headquarters in Tunisia. The PLO had been a focal point for Palestinian nationalism and was responsible for various attacks against Israeli interests. Triggered by a Palestinian attack that resulted in Israeli casualties, the Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Shimon Peres, determined to act decisively against the PLO's leadership to deter future attacks and signal its military capability to neighboring states. The operation involved precise airstrikes conducted by the Israeli Air Force targeting the PLO's leadership building, resulting in considerable destruction and loss of life.

The airstrikes led to the deaths of numerous PLO officials and militants. The operation also marked a notable point in Israeli military doctrine, showcasing their capability to project power beyond immediate borders. Following the attacks, tensions rose in the region, leading to both local and international condemnation of Israel’s actions. The PLO, under the leadership of Yasser Arafat, vowed to retaliate against Israel, escalating the ongoing conflict in the region further. The operation reflects the broader context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, characterized by cycles of violence, military engagement, and diplomatic challenges.

Moreover, Operation Wooden Leg was notable for its impact on international perceptions of the conflict, showing that Israel was prepared to use military force extensively. It also raised questions about the legality of such actions against non-state actors and sparked discussions around state sovereignty and responses to terrorism. The operation highlighted the PLO's significant role in regional geopolitics, establishing it as both a symbol of Palestinian resistance and a target for Israeli military efforts.