The Gaza-Beersheba line was the main Turkish defensive position astride the route into Palestine, running from the coastal city of Gaza to Beersheba in the east. The line was admirably suited to defence, with strong Turkish trenches and redoubts being complemented by natural defences (including tall cactus hedges) and good water supplies. A series of offensives, the various "battles of Gaza", were required to dislodge the Turks, who were finally forced to retire from the position in November 1917.