WAR POSITION IN PACIFIC

Waikato Times, Volume 129, Issue 21600, 10 December 1941, Page 5

WAR POSITION IN PACIFIC

JAPAN’S THREE BATTLE - FRONTS

HONGKONG, THE PHILIPPINES AND MALAYA

AIR ATTACKS ON AMERICAN CITIES EXPECTED

LONDON, Dec. 9

The war position in the Pacific is rather confused today. It appears as if the Japanese are concentrating on three battlefronts—Hongkong, the Philippines and Malaya —and are devoting the rest of their attention to hit-and-run raids over a vast area.

A ashington statement announced that information had been received that enemy planes were within two hours’ flying distance of New York.

Statements concerning the presence of Japanese forces along the whole Western seaboard of the Continent have also been received. Besides the reports from San Francisco concerning the presence of enemy planes, the Mayor of Vancouver stated that Japanese forces were close and could be expected at any time.

Manila was raided again by Japanese bombers and some damage was done, but there is no confirmation that troops have been landed on the Islands.

Heavy fighting continued throughout the night in northern Malaya, where the Japanese are being attacked by British aircraft and troops. Further landings have been made by the enemy. British reinforcements should 'each the area during the day. Fighting in the Kota Bharu area, on the east coast of Malaya near the Thailand border, has been particularly severe.