ITALIAN HOPES

Waipukurau Press, Volume XXX, Issue 275, 26 November 1935, Page 6

ITALIAN HOPES

I A Strip of Land EBITBEA TO SOMALILAND NO ADVANCE IN TIGRE By Telegraph —Copyright Press Assn. LONDON, Nov. 25. The “Morning Post’s” diplomatic correspondent learns from a reliable Italian source that the nature of future military operations in north Abyssinia are® closely connected with the possibility of something emerging from the diplomatic talks. He understands that the Italian High Command is not specially anxious to extend the advance in Tigre, which would not accord with political aims, which distinguish between Amharic and non-Amharic regions. Search for the main Abyssinian force means the occupation of more of Abyssinia proper and make settlement more remote. It would suit the Italians better to limit their advance in Tigre to the present position, with the river Takazze as the natural boundary, and re-orientate future expansion to the south-eastward with a view to linking up with their troops in the south.

The Italians hope to secure a wide strip of territory, including Danakil and Ogaden, and possibly Harar, running from Eritrea to Somaliland. These provinces, claimed by Italy as non-Amharic, would be placed under Italian possession by the disarmament of the rest of Abyssinia. These are the terms Italy is waiting the League to propose.