On the first night of Hanukkah in 1917, Jerusalem surrendered to the British
after the Ottoman soldiers just disappeared.
During almost continuous rain on 8 December, Jerusalem ceased to be protected by the Ottoman Empire.[107][108] Chetwode (commander of XX Corps), who had relieved Bulfin (commander of XXI Corps), launched the final advance taking the heights to the west of Jerusalem on 8 December.[107] The Ottoman Seventh Army retreated during the evening and the city surrendered the following day.[109] Allenby and parading Indian troops at Jaffa Gate, 11 December 1917, during official ceremonies after the capture of Jerusalem
The mayor of Jerusalem, Hussein Salim al-Husseini, attempted to deliver the Ottoman Governor's letter surrendering the city to Sergeants James Sedgewick and Frederick Hurcomb of 2/19th Battalion, London Regiment, just outside Jerusalem's western limits on the morning of 9 December 1917. The two sergeants, who were scouting ahead of Allenby's main force, refused to take the letter. It was eventually accepted by Brigadier General C.F. Watson, commanding the 180th (2/5th London) Brigade.[110]
Jerusalem was almost encircled by the EEF, although Ottoman Army units briefly held the Mount of Olives on 9 December. They were overwhelmed by the 60th (2/2nd London) Division the following afternoon.[111]
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Jerusalem
The surrender of Jerusalem to the British, 9 December 1917
