In early 1945, as World War II neared its conclusion, the Yugoslav Partisans launched a decisive offensive to liberate Sarajevo from German and Croatian forces. The city had been underAxis occupation since 1941, facing brutal oppression that included ethnic persecution and significant economic hardship. With the war in Europe shifting following the D-Day landings and the defeat of Nazi Germany becoming imminent, the Partisans saw an opportunity to strike. Mobilizing local support and a network of partisan fighters, they executed a well-planned assault on June 4, supported by the broader Yugoslav National Liberation Army. The battle was intense, with fierce street fighting as the Partisans engaged Axis troops directly and employed guerrilla tactics effectively. The residents of Sarajevo played a crucial role, providing intelligence, supplies, and morale boosts to the Partisan fighters, which significantly aided their cause. After several hours of fighting, the Partisans successfully captured key positions in the city, ultimately leading to the surrender of the occupying forces. This victory not only gave the Partisans control of Sarajevo but also boosted their legitimacy and influence in the post-war period of Yugoslavia.