JEWS SEIZE HAIFA

Chronicle (Levin), 23 April 1948, Page 5

JEWS SEIZE HAIFA

(N.Z.P.A.—

- Reuter ,

Arabs Seek Peace Following All-Night Battle

Copyright)

Repeived Friday, 11,10 a.m. JERUSALEM, April 22. After an all-night battle with Arabs, Jewish forees have virtually seized control of Haifa following the withdrawal of the British troops from all parts of the city except the port area. The Arabs haye sued for peace, asking the British military authorities to-mediate. An Arab spokesman said: "It was a massacre. The Jews shot many Arab women and children as they attempted to flee into the British controlled port area." A Haganah spokesman denied the accusation. At the British Army's request, Haganah ordeyed the cease1 fire shortiy after noon. A Haganah spokesman said four Jews were killed and oyer 30 wounded, and estimated that not more than 20 Arabs were killed, During the battle mortar shelling set alight to buildings in the port area and British troops ©ccupied defensive positions. In Jerusalem all British security forces were alerted as news of the Haifa battle arrived in case Haganah planned a similar driv.e In Jerusalem. Armed Arabs held up the staff of Barclay's Bank in Jerusalem and stole £18,000. Battles are now being fought all over Palestine as the, Jews and Arabs attempt to take over the | towns and vantage points evacuI ated by the depa'rting British. Troops of the Transjordan Arab Legion are massing along the eastern bank of the Jordan and it is thought likely that they will enter Palestine soon. The Arabs are bitterly criticising the British failure to intervene in the new outbreak of violence. The Palestine Government told Britons planning to leave Palestine to do so by April 30 as no escort facilities would be available thererafter.