IRAQ ARMY

Evening Star, Issue 23880, 9 May 1941, Page 7

IRAQ ARMY

DISCOURAGED BY REVERSES CDOLNESS TOWARDS RASHID ALI R.A.F. ATTACKS CAUSE CONFUSION (British Official Wireless l Tress Association—By Telegraph—Copyright RUGBY, May 8. A message from Cairo states that the Iraq army’s reverses are causing increasing coolness among the elements in Iraq, including tribal chiefs, towards Rashid All’s antiBritish front. A brigade which was sent from Basra to Bagdad with instructions to eject the British forces showed little inclination to fight, dallying along the road. An R.A.F. Middle East communique states: “In Iraq operations against rebel Iraqis yesterday were carried out by our aircraft with such effect that heavy casualties were inflicted on them and much confusion caused. The aerodrome at Moascar Al Rashid was again bombed and one hangar was completely destroyed by fire. A twin-engined aircraft on the tarmac was blown un. a number of others were severely damaged. and the aerodrome surface badly cut up. Our aircraft received practically no opposition. ENEMY DRIVEN FROM PLATEAU. “In the Habbaniyah area, continuous close air support was given while R.A.F. armoured units and troops and Iraqi levies attacked and drove off the enemy from the plateau overlooking the (R.A.F. station. Rebel casualties were very heavy, but ours were negligible. The previous night the rebels were given no rest, as their lines were attacked continuously by our aircraft. TURKISH POLICY. A Turkish newspaper, commenting on the situation in Iraq, said: “ We do not think it honourable or profitable to link with the Axis, and that is why we are in line with Britain, The Turkish policy is to ask nothing and to give nothing. While we appreciate the Germans’ overtures, we are not leaving ourselves unguarded. Turkey is anxious to be on good terms with all sides, but will not give up her rights.”