The Siege of Malta commenced with a series of focused air raids conducted by the Italian Air Force against strategic British positions on the island. Malta, under British control, was a crucial bastion in the Mediterranean, serving as a key supply point for British forces. The Italian military, eager to expand their influence and disrupt British operations, aimed to take control of Malta to safeguard their supply lines and enhance their strategic positioning in the region. The initial raids involved bombing runs targeting airfields, military installations, and transport hubs, intending to neutralize the potential threat posed by British naval forces operating in nearby waters.

The significance of Malta in the broader context of World War II cannot be overstated. Its location allowed it to serve as a staging ground for British operations in North Africa. As such, the Italian choice to begin their campaign against Malta was part of a larger strategy of intimidation and dominance in the Mediterranean. The early air raids marked a shift in the Italian approach, moving from naval dominance to aerial bombardment as a means of warfare. Despite the initial successes of these raids, the British forces were determined to hold Malta, leading to a brutal and resilient defense that would see the island become a symbol of courage and resistance in the face of overwhelming odds.

The siege would ensue for several years, becoming one of the most significant military campaigns in the Mediterranean theater of World War II. As the siege progressed, British naval and air defenses strengthened, leading to a counter-offensive effort that would change the course of the conflict. Despite facing shortages and constant aerial assaults, the British garrison and the civilian population of Malta demonstrated remarkable resilience and tenacity.