2009 Wars & Armed Conflicts Events — Verified Historical Highlights
2009 Wars & Armed Conflicts Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 02 Jan Sri Lankan military captures Kilinochchi from Tamil Tigers: On January 2, 2009, the Sri Lankan military announced the capture of Kilinochchi, the de facto capital of the Tamil Tigers. This victory was a significant blow to the separatist group during the ongoing civil war in Sri Lanka. source: bbc.com
- 03 Jan Israel launches ground invasion of Gaza Strip: On January 3, 2009, Israel initiated a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip, aiming to halt rocket fire from Hamas militants. This operation was a significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 16 Jan Australian Soldier Awarded Victoria Cross: Trooper Mark Donaldson from the Australian Special Air Service Regiment was presented with the Victoria Cross for exceptional gallantry during the War in Afghanistan.
- 17 Jan Israel announces unilateral ceasefire in Gaza War: On January 17, 2009, Israel declared a unilateral ceasefire in the Gaza War, which had been ongoing since December 2008. The announcement aimed to halt hostilities and allow humanitarian aid to reach affected areas. source: nytimes.com
- 20 Jan End of George W. Bush's presidential term: George W. Bush's presidency officially ended on January 20, 2009, after two terms in office. His administration faced significant challenges, including the financial crisis and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. source: history.com
- 23 Jan Chinese Crew Repels Somali Pirates: The 30-member crew of Chinese cargo ship Zhenhua 4 successfully defended against Somali pirates in the Gulf of Aden, each receiving a US$10,000 reward.
- 25 Jan Sri Lankan Army captures Tamil Tiger stronghold: On January 25, 2009, the Sri Lankan Army captured the Tamil Tiger stronghold of Kilinochchi, marking a significant turning point in the Sri Lankan Civil War. The capture was seen as a major blow to the Tamil Tigers' military capabilities. source: bbc.com
- 28 Jan Sri Lankan civil war casualties reported: On January 28, 2009, reports indicated rising casualties in the Sri Lankan civil war, which was nearing its conclusion. The conflict had resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of civilians, drawing international concern regarding humanitarian conditions in the region. source: bbc.com
- 02 Feb ICC to investigate potential Israeli war crimes: The International Criminal Court announced it would investigate allegations of war crimes committed during the Gaza conflict. This decision followed a request from the Palestinian Authority, raising significant international legal and political implications. source: bbc.com
- 08 Feb Gaza rocket attack on Israel: On February 8, 2009, a rocket fired from Gaza struck southern Israel, escalating tensions in the region. This incident occurred during the aftermath of the Gaza War, which had significant humanitarian and political implications. source: reuters.com
- 13 Feb Train Crash in Orissa, India: A passenger train crash in Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India, results in at least 15 fatalities and 150 injuries.
- 18 Feb Israel's Stance on Hamas Negotiations: Israel declared it would not engage in direct negotiations with Hamas until war prisoner Gilad Shalit is released.
- 24 Feb Taliban Announces Ceasefire in Swat Valley: The Taliban announces a ceasefire in its war in northwest Pakistan's Swat Valley, marking a significant development in the region's conflict.
- 03 Mar German frigate prevents pirate attack: On March 3, 2009, the German frigate FGS Karlsruhe successfully thwarted a pirate attack off the coast of Somalia. The frigate, part of the European Union's anti-piracy mission, responded to a distress call from a merchant vessel and deterred the pirates, ensuring the safety of the crew and cargo. source: dw.com
- 06 Mar North Korea threatens South Korean aircraft: On March 6, 2009, North Korea issued threats against South Korean aircraft, escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula. This warning was part of a broader pattern of aggressive rhetoric from North Korea during this period. source: reuters.com
- 07 Mar Car bomb kills 8 in Peshawar: A car bomb exploded near a police checkpoint on the outskirts of Peshawar, Pakistan, killing seven policemen and one civilian. The attack occurred after police attempted to retrieve a body from the vehicle, which was rigged with explosives. source: longwarjournal.org
- 09 Mar North Korea warns against satellite interception: On March 9, 2009, North Korea issued a warning against any attempt to intercept its planned satellite launch, stating that such actions would be considered an act of war. The warning heightened tensions in the region and drew international concern. source: reuters.com
- 13 Mar Japan Warns North Korea on Satellite Launch: Japan declared its intention to intercept North Korea's upcoming satellite launch if the rocket boosters were to threaten Japanese territory, heightening regional tensions.
- 14 Mar Japan deploys naval forces to combat piracy off the coast of Somalia: On March 14, 2009, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the deployment of two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) destroyers, the Samidare and the Sazanami, to the Gulf of Aden to participate in international efforts against piracy. This marked Japan's first overseas military mission since World War II. The deployment aimed to protect Japanese and other international vessels from pirate attacks in the region. source: mofa.go.jp
- 18 Apr Naval forces prevent Somali pirate attack: On April 18, 2009, naval forces successfully thwarted an attempted attack by Somali pirates on a commercial vessel. This incident highlighted ongoing maritime security challenges in the region. source: reuters.com
- 23 Apr Iraqi war casualties reported: On April 23, 2009, reports emerged detailing the casualties from the ongoing conflict in Iraq. The figures highlighted the continuing violence and instability in the region, drawing attention to the humanitarian impact of the war. source: reuters.com
- 26 Apr Cruise Ship Thwarts Somali Pirate Attack: The MSC ''Melody'', a cruise ship, successfully prevented an attack by Somali pirates in the Gulf of Aden, demonstrating maritime resilience against piracy threats.
- 29 Apr End of Sri Lankan Civil War: The Sri Lankan Civil War officially ended on May 18, 2009, but significant military operations concluded around April 29, 2009. The conflict lasted for over 25 years, resulting in substantial loss of life and displacement. The end of the war marked a significant turning point for Sri Lanka's political and social landscape. source: bbc.com
- 13 May Hospital bombing in Sri Lanka: On May 13, 2009, artillery shelling targeted a hospital in Sri Lanka's war zone, resulting in the deaths of 50 people and injuries to 40 others. This attack was part of a series of assaults on medical facilities during the conflict. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 16 May Sri Lanka declares victory over Tamil Tigers: On May 16, 2009, Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa announced the military defeat of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), declaring the end of the country's civil war. The announcement followed the capture of the last LTTE-controlled coastline, effectively surrounding the remaining fighters in a small area. Despite the declaration, the fate of LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran remained uncertain. source: aljazeera.com
- 17 May Al-Shabaab captures Jowhar: On May 17, 2009, Al-Shabaab militants captured Jowhar, the capital of Shabeellaha Dhexe region in Somalia. The town's strategic location, serving as a key link between Mogadishu and central Somalia, made it a significant gain for Al-Shabaab. The capture followed intense battles, resulting in the deaths of at least three pro-government fighters. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 18 May Sri Lankan civil war ends: On May 18, 2009, Sri Lankan military forces declared the end of the civil war with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The announcement followed the capture of the last LTTE-controlled area, marking the conclusion of a 26-year conflict. source: aljazeera.com
- 20 May Iran launches Sajjil-2 missile: On May 20, 2009, Iran successfully launched the Sajjil-2, a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads. This test marked a significant advancement in Iran's missile technology. source: reuters.com
- 23 May Peshawar car bombing kills dozens in Pakistan: On May 23, 2009, a car bomb exploded in Peshawar, Pakistan, killing at least 25 people and injuring many others. The attack targeted a police station and was part of a series of violent incidents in the region linked to militant groups. source: bbc.com
- 26 May Obama nominates Sonia Sotomayor to Supreme Court: On May 26, 2009, President Barack Obama nominated Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court, making her the first Hispanic and Latina member of the Court. Sotomayor's nomination was seen as a significant step towards diversity in the judiciary. source: npr.org
- 27 May North Korea abandons Korean War truce: On May 27, 2009, North Korea announced it was abandoning the armistice that ended the Korean War, citing increased tensions with South Korea and the United States. This declaration heightened fears of military confrontation in the region. source: reuters.com
- 28 May Korean Peninsula tensions escalate: On May 28, 2009, tensions on the Korean Peninsula escalated following North Korea's recent military provocations and its announcement to abandon the Korean War truce. The international community expressed concern over the potential for conflict. source: reuters.com
- 31 May Violent Conflict in Palestinian Territories: A deadly battle erupted between Hamas militants, the Palestinian National Authority's Preventive Security Service, resulting in six fatalities, underscoring the ongoing internal tensions within Palestinian political factions.
- 09 Jun Deadly Hotel Explosion in Peshawar, Pakistan: A devastating explosion at a hotel in Peshawar, Pakistan killed 17 people and injured at least 46 individuals, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
- 02 Jul Amnesty International Gaza War Crimes Report: Amnesty International releases a comprehensive report alleging war crimes committed by both Israeli military operations and Palestinian militant rocket attacks during the Gaza War.
- 06 Jul US-Russia Nuclear Arms Reduction Agreement: On July 6, 2009, the United States and Russia announced a new agreement to reduce their nuclear arsenals. The agreement aimed to cut the number of strategic nuclear warheads to between 1,500 and 1,675 for each country, and to reduce the number of delivery vehicles to between 500 and 1,100. This agreement was a significant step in nuclear disarmament efforts between the two nations. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 17 Jul Eastern European Leaders Warn Obama on Russia: 22 prominent figures, including notable dissidents Vaclav Havel and Lech Walesa, signed an open letter cautioning the Obama administration against developing closer ties with Russia, reflecting ongoing geopolitical sensitivities.
- 18 Jul Mauritania holds first presidential election post-coup: On July 18, 2009, Mauritania conducted its first presidential election following a military coup. The election was seen as a crucial step towards restoring democratic governance in the country. source: bbc.com
- 06 Aug 64th anniversary of Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings: On August 6, 2009, the world commemorated the 64th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, during World War II. The events led to Japan's surrender and the end of the war. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 07 Aug Mexico's drug war violence escalates: On August 7, 2009, reports indicated a significant escalation in Mexico's drug war violence, with over 100 deaths in the past week attributed to drug cartel conflicts and government crackdowns. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Aug First Post-Civil War Local Elections in Northern Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka held its first local government elections in the northern region since the conclusion of the long-running civil war, marking a significant milestone in the country's post-conflict political reconstruction and democratic process.
- 10 Aug UNASUR tensions over US military bases: At a UNASUR summit in Quito, Ecuador, leaders expressed concerns over a U.S.-Colombia military agreement allowing U.S. forces to operate from Colombian bases, with Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez warning of potential conflict. source: aljazeera.com
- 14 Aug Deadly Gaza gun battle: A gun battle in the Gaza Strip resulted in multiple fatalities, escalating tensions between Palestinian factions. source: aljazeera.com
- 25 Aug Death of Senator Edward Kennedy: Senator Edward Kennedy, a prominent Democratic politician from Massachusetts, passed away on August 25, 2009, at the age of 77. He was the youngest brother of President John F. Kennedy and Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and served in the U.S. Senate for nearly 47 years, making significant contributions to legislation on civil rights, healthcare, and education. source: nytimes.com
- 26 Aug Korean Family Reunification Talks: North and South Korea resume diplomatic talks aimed at allowing families separated since the Korean War to reunite, marking a potential breakthrough in inter-Korean relations after more than two years of tension.
- 09 Sep Benigno Aquino III's Presidential Bid: Benigno Aquino III, son of former Philippine President Corazon Aquino, announced his intention to run for the presidency, carrying forward his family's political legacy.
- 15 Sep Madagascar Prime Minister Warns of Political Instability: Prime Minister Monja Roindefo accused the international community and President Andry Rajoelina of betrayal, warning that Madagascar risked becoming a warlord-controlled territory, highlighting significant political tensions.
- 16 Sep J.R.R. Tolkien's Secret Wartime Intelligence Work: Newly discovered documents reveal that renowned novelist J.R.R. Tolkien was covertly trained to conduct intelligence work for His Majesty's Government during World War II, highlighting the unexpected roles of intellectuals during wartime.
- 27 Sep Turkey and Armenia sign protocols for diplomatic relations: On September 27, 2009, Turkey and Armenia signed protocols aimed at normalizing relations and establishing diplomatic ties. This was a significant step towards reconciliation between the two nations, which have had a troubled history. source: bbc.com
- 30 Sep International Report on South Ossetia War: An international fact-finding mission released a final report concluding that Georgia initiated the 2008 South Ossetia War, providing a significant diplomatic and historical assessment of the conflict.
- 04 Oct Death of Günther Rall, German Fighter Pilot: Günther Rall, a notable German fighter pilot from World War II, passed away. Rall was a significant figure in aviation history, known for his military service.
- 09 Oct Obama wins Nobel Peace Prize: On October 9, 2009, U.S. President Barack Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples. The Nobel Committee recognized his vision and work for a world without nuclear weapons. source: nobelprize.org
- 13 Oct Norwegian Nobel Committee defends Obama Prize selection: On October 13, 2009, the Norwegian Nobel Committee defended its decision to award the Nobel Peace Prize to U.S. President Barack Obama. The committee emphasized that the award was based on Obama's efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation, particularly in nuclear disarmament. source: nobelprize.org
- 15 Oct Controversy over Obama's Nobel Peace Prize: On October 15, 2009, the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to U.S. President Barack Obama sparked controversy. Critics questioned the decision, citing that Obama had been in office for less than a year and had not yet achieved significant accomplishments in promoting peace. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 16 Oct Mosque Explosion in Peshawar: A devastating explosion at a mosque in Peshawar, Pakistan, claimed at least seven lives and injured at least ten others, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
- 22 Oct Tamil Refugees Released in Sri Lanka: Nearly 6,000 Tamil refugees were released from Sri Lanka's main camp, with plans for resettlement in the coming weeks, signaling a potential step towards post-war reconciliation.
- 28 Oct Peshawar market bombing: On October 28, 2009, a bombing in a market in Peshawar, Pakistan, resulted in numerous casualties. The attack was part of a series of violent incidents in the region, raising concerns about security and terrorism. The bombing highlighted the ongoing conflict and instability in Pakistan. source: bbc.com
- 06 Nov Casimir Pulaski Receives Honorary U.S. Citizenship: President Barack Obama signed a congressional resolution conferring honorary U.S. citizenship to Casimir Pulaski, a Revolutionary War hero, recognizing his significant contributions to American independence.
- 10 Nov Naval clash between North and South Korea in the Yellow Sea: On November 10, 2009, a skirmish occurred between North and South Korean naval forces near Daecheong Island in the Yellow Sea. The incident began when a North Korean patrol boat crossed the Northern Limit Line, leading to warning shots from South Korean vessels. The North Korean boat returned fire, resulting in a brief exchange before retreating. Both sides blamed each other for the provocation. source: aljazeera.com
- 12 Nov World War II Japanese Submarines Discovery: Two sunken World War II Japanese submarines were discovered off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, providing significant historical maritime archaeological insights into naval warfare in the Pacific theater.
- 13 Nov Terrorist Attack on Pakistani Intelligence Agency: A bombing at the Peshawar office of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence Agency resulted in seven deaths and 35 injuries, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
- 18 Nov Lingering Vietnam War Tragedy: A remnant bomb from the Vietnam War kills four people in southern Tay Ninh Province while they attempted to remove explosive material, underscoring the long-lasting impact of the conflict.
- 19 Nov Peshawar Suicide Bombing: On November 19, 2009, a suicide bombing in Peshawar, Pakistan, killed several people and injured many others. The attack was part of a series of violent incidents in the region, raising concerns about security and terrorism. source: bbc.com
- 24 Nov United Kingdom Launches Iraq War Inquiry: On November 24, 2009, the UK government launched an inquiry into the Iraq War, focusing on the decision-making process and the events leading up to the conflict. This inquiry aimed to address public concerns regarding the war. source: bbc.com
- 07 Dec Peshawar Courthouse Bombing: A devastating terrorist attack occurs outside a courthouse in Peshawar, Pakistan, killing at least five people and highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
- 10 Dec Barack Obama receives Nobel Peace Prize: U.S. President Barack Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples. The decision was met with both praise and criticism.
- 13 Dec Tony Blair's Iraq War Admission: Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair admitted that the Iraq War was a mistake, acknowledging that the intelligence regarding weapons of mass destruction was flawed. This admission sparked widespread debate and criticism over the UK's involvement in the conflict. source: theguardian.com
- 22 Dec Sudan Approves Southern Independence Referendum: On December 22, 2009, the Sudanese government approved a referendum for Southern independence, a crucial step towards a potential split of the country. This decision was part of the peace agreement that ended the civil war. source: bbc.com
- 28 Dec Bomb Explosion in Chitwan, Nepal: A bomb suspected to be from Nepal's civil war exploded in Chitwan, southwest of Kathmandu, killing three people and injuring two others, revealing lingering tensions from past conflicts.
- 29 Dec Serbian Minister Resigns Over Mladic Failure: Serbia's Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Affairs, Rasim Lijajic, resigned after failing to fulfill his promise of capturing war crimes suspect Ratko Mladic by the end of 2009.
- 30 Dec CIA Agents Killed in Suicide Bombing: On December 30, 2009, a suicide bombing at Forward Operating Base Chapman in Khost Province, Afghanistan, resulted in the deaths of seven CIA officers and contractors. The attacker, Humam Khalil Abu-Mulal al-Balawi, was a double agent who had been recruited by Jordanian intelligence to infiltrate al-Qaeda. The bombing was one of the deadliest attacks on the CIA in recent history. source: wbur.org
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