CRITICAL SITUATION

Evening Post, Volume CXL, Issue 23, 27 July 1945, Page 8

CRITICAL SITUATION

JAPANESE DESCRIPTION Rec. 9 a.m. NEW YORK, July 26. The Japanese broadcasts today have been preoccupied with the repeated British and American sea and air attacks, Japan's deteriorating military position, and the spectre of invasion. One broadcaster said: "The audacious attacks by Allied warships have signalled the opening of a gigantic offensive against the home islands, which has now entered on the most decisive stage. "The Japanese people should expect all cities and villages to be virtually burned down and all the transportation network practically cut, but they should still keep their faith in the coastal fortifications. ■ "Furthermore, if the enemy should refrain from landing in fear of the Japanese defence system and continue tightening the blockade, we shall wait for 20, 30, or even 50 years." The newspaper "Asahi" warned the people that the sea and air attacks presaged a landing on the mainland and added that the present military situation was by no means favourable for Japan. Meanwhile the Premier, Admiral Suzuki, declared: "The Japanese, are different from the Germans. lam sure the Japanese have not yet given out their full strength. When they fight with their backs to the wall they will assuredly display tremendous power."