Why Rommel Halted

Northern Advocate, 19 February 1942, Page 3

Why Rommel Halted

fßritish Official Wireless! (Rec. 1.30 p.m.) RUGBY. Feb. 18. The Cairo war communique states that our fighting patrols and mobile columns, protected by fighter sweeps, again operated over a wide area south of the general line Tmimi-Mekili, without encountering any opposition.

The withdrawal of Rommel and strong forces to points roughly 15 to 20 miles west of Gazala, announced recently, is the subject of keen speculation among military experts in London. There are three alternative reasons suggested for this move. Three Likely Reasons

The first is that Rommel came forward intending to attack but found the Imperial forces stronger than he contemplated—and withdrew. Secondly, that he never intended to attack but came forward to see where the Imperial forces were. This is regarded as the less likely alternative, in view of the strength of the forces Rommel moved forward. Thirdly, that he came forward intending to attack but found himself deprived of more of his air power than he liked and might have decided that, without that air strength, he was not prepared to attack.

Successful British air attacks on planes which were attacking our columns are. incidentally, an example of the very high standard of co-operation existing between the army and the R.A.F. in Libya. Rommel has withdrawn his. reconnaissance detachments from the Gazala areas and the 60 miles strip of no man's land to the west is now clear of enemy troops. There are. however, considerable enemy forces around Mekili. The War Office has praised the work of the Royal Ordnance Corps in the Libyan campaign. The Royal Ordnance Corps, it is stated, has been turned into a combatant force and is being given full infantry training. Benghazi Bombed

The Royal Air Force Middle East communique states that Benghazi was severely bombed by our aircraft on Monday night. Violent explosions in the harbour area illuminated the whole town and were followed by fires and further explosions. A large fire was started in the Torelli barracks on the north-east side of the harbour, while fires and explosions broke out to the east of the town at Fort Leushi and other places. The harbour and railway station at Tripoli were also bombed yesterday. Our fighter aircraft were again active over the battle area of Cvrenaica. An enemy raid on Malta on Mon-, day night caused no damage nor casualties. Six of our fighters are missing.