AN ARABIAN VISION

Evening Post, Volume XCVII, Issue 33, 10 February 1919, Page 7

AN ARABIAN VISION

HOPES OF EMPIRE

CLAIMS PRESENTED TO THE

POWERS.

(DKHBD MESS ASSOCIATION.—COP-fII«HT.)

(AUSTItALIAN-X-W ZEALAND CABLE ASSOCIATION.) PARIS, 7th February.

The Arabs have a vision of a great Arabian Empire arising from the ashes of the Turkish Empire. They want to see a great Arabian confederation of Syria, Mesopotamia, and Arabia recognised. Palestine, which contains the holy places, requires special treatment. French susceptibilities ' call for delicate handling. There was a picturesque scene at the Quai d'Orsay when Emil Feisul, on behalf of his father, presented the, Arabs' claim before the democracies of the world for the disposal of the Garden of Eden. Emir Feisul pointed out that his forefathers held the country be- i fore the present rulers. There was an' Arab preponderance in Palestine of seven to one. From the Emir's. remarks it is clear that he does not approve of a French mandatory over Syria; The Pal-, estine problem is complicated by the Arabs claiming' Damascus and other towns with an outlet to the sea. Such a scheme may interfere with Syria. The French have historic claims to Syria. Though the British are- in possession of Palestine and Mesopotamia, they are not anxious to extend their commitments. The Jews also have special rights in Palestine, which have been recognised. The general view is that these territories are unable to stand alone with the exception of King Hejaz's territory. There must be some system of maintaining their independence and improving their position. The British do not object to a French mandatory, although the Arabs may object to a particular mandatory.

Emir Feisul created an extraordinary impression in the Council by his skilful answers to questions.