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In a couple of after action reports the Allies invaded Tripoli very early. Done successfully, it opens the back door to North Africa and makes conquering it very early much easier, since Tobruk is effectively outflanked. But now that everyone is aware of it it seems to me the Italians come put a stop to it by placing one or even to units in front of or around Tripoli, which they can certainly afford to do. If the Allies don't get it they have made a tremendous investment for nothing and have a number of units imperiled in Tunisia. Am I missing something?

It's a risky move by the allies. They can scout ahead though with a carrier to see what the Italians are doing, so it's not a blind risk.

Though for me, taking tripoli is not really about kicking the Italians out of Africa, but keeping the Germans from getting in. Basically it closes the backdoor (through Tunis), since the navy cannot shut down these ports if the Luftwaffe takes to Sicily or Italy makes a maritime bomber.

Axis also takes a risk by defending Tripoli though. Just sending Italian units is not enough, you must send an HQ, because British and French battleships can destroy the supply in Tripoli. And then also the Luftwaffe to block the British carriers who will otherwise tear through the HQ.

If France can delay its fall long enough, then the Italians might still be in trouble. On the other hand, if France falls fast, the British can be caught in a real tight spot.

I think that sums it up very succinctly. Thank you.