CAPTURE OF BAGDAD.

Hokitika Guardian, 13 March 1917, Page 2

CAPTURE OF BAGDAD.

Greatest Succoss of War. (Australian & N.Z. Cable Association and Reuter). Paris, March 12 The Matin states the capture of Bagdad is the Entente’s greatest success of the war period. It reduces to nothing the German plans for the defence of Mesopotamia. The Petit Pavisien says the capture wrecks the Kaiser’s whole Omental programme.

The F garo comments on the immense mural effect the capture will re-echo throughout Turkey. Wiped Off the Map. London, March 12 To-day’s Turkish official report does not mention Bagdad. Particulars of the Fall.

(Received March 13, at 1.5 p.m.) London, March 11

Hon Bonar Law »nid the fall of Bagdad was the reqacl to a series of brilliant performances cf both British and Indians, showing their pueh and determination was beyond all praise. There was heavy fighting, especially on the right bank with severe Turkisn losses. The troops since the fall of Kut had pursued the Turks 110 miles in fifteen days through country destitute of supplies, and in the face of heavy weather aud the difficulties of thrice crossing the Tigris, The final march of eighteen miles was in intense beat amid severe dust storms aud was a brilliant achievement, We have every reason to believe that two-thirds of the enemy’s entire artillery has been captured or thrown in the Tigris.

There is also a iarge number of prisoners and much booty. He concluded by tributing the skill and vigor of the leadership, and the valour and endurance of the troops; also the highly successful supply service and the medical arrangements by the general staffs of the plans.

For Military Reasons.

Amsterdam, March 12

In the Turkish Chambers, Enrer Paftha admitted that the Turks had retired from Mesopotamia and Persia for military reasons.