Stage Set for Great Offensive

Manawatu Times, Volume 68, Issue 50, 1 March 1943, Page 5

Stage Set for Great Offensive

Received Sunday, 9.30 p.m. NEW YORK, Feb. 27.

The New York Times \ North Africa correspondent, Mr. Drew Middleton, says bitter German attacks on Friday in the mist of shrouded hills and valleys of Northern Tunisia, had two objectives. Firstly, they were to secure the Tunis-Bizerta area against an Allied offensive by capturing the main sallyports, notably Medjezeloab, Elassoura and Bouarada. Secondly, to pm as many as possible of the British troops in the north in order to prevent them moving southward to engage Rommel's shaken army.

Mr. Middleton concludes: “General Montgomery is doubtlessly in a position to hammer the southern gateway to the heart of Tunisia while the Axis is becoming worried at the prospect of the Allies attacking in north, south and Central Tunisia simultaneously with the Eighth Army offensive. The enemy lost a wonderful chance of striking a crippling blow at the Allies and it is doubtful if ever again he will be so favourably placed. Overwhelming air power was applied precisely at the right moment, combined with deftly delivered counter-attacks by tanks and infantry, -which set a pattern lor future operations. The Air Force firstly blew gaping holes in Rommel’s supply system and then, when the British and American forces compelled him to turn back, the Air Force delivered the most crushing attack of the battle, turning the retreat which began in an orderiy fashion, almost into a rout. Hverything from Fortresses to Spitfires attacked Rommel from sea communications between Sicily and Tunisia to frontline positions. There are indications that the Allies, realising the damage done to Rommel’s material and his high losses in manpower, may take the offensive with their own battered forces while General Montgomery strikes from the south. Though there is a difference of opinion about the strength of the Mareth Line, the enemy has been in possession for some weeks and undoubtedly has made it more formidable. It probably forms the first line defence position extending through Gabes for a distance exceeding thirty miles. No matter how stout the position is, the strategic picture so sombre a week ago, takes on brighter colours. The stage is set for the great offensive campaign ol 1943.’*