BATTLES IN SYRIA

Wairarapa Times-Age, 24 June 1941, Page 5

BATTLES IN SYRIA

ALLIED SOUTH-EASTERN DRIVE FLEET STEADILY POUNDING COAST. HELPING TO OPEN THE WAY TO BEIRUT. LONDON, June 23. A. new Allied drive into south-eastern Syria is indicated by a communique issued in Vichy, which says: “Important motorised elements from Iraq crossed the frontier, advancing' in the direction of Palmyra. Vichy planes made an immediate and sustained attack. Vichy t/roops reoccupied Abukmal. Artillery is active on both sides in southern Lebanon and the coastal sector.’’ The Vichy radio stated that British naval units are bombarding without interruption the coast between Sidon and Beirut, probably preparing for an offensive by Australian troops. The firing is particularly heavy in the Damour region. Violent fighting is going on in the Jezzin and Merj lyun districts. The correspondent of the Associated Press of Great Britain at Damascus reveals that the Australians played a gallant role in the capture of Mezze, which was the target of very heavy Vichy fire. Indian troops carried the battle into a suburb and blew up the railway between Damascus and Beirut and blocked the road. Vichy tanks cut off a unit, which fought back bravely, but lacked tanks and guns. The Australians sent relief and won. through despite very severe gunfire.

RAIDS ON BEIRUT ENEMY DESTROYER HIT. MERCHANT SHIP SET ON FIRE. LONDON, June 23. in an air raid on the harbour of Beirut a destroyer was hit and a merchant ship set on fire. Aircraft of the Fleet Air Arm also attacked the port at night, when bombs fell across the wharves. In Syria Allied forces are now in contact with Vichy troops west of Damascus. A Cairo communique slates that the situation in the capital is quiet following our occupation. British troops have reached Palmyra, 150 miles north-east of Damascus, where they are now meeting with resistance from Vichy columns. On other fronts the situation is unchanged and fighting is going on.

POSITIONS TAKEN MEZZE AND TWO FORTS IN SOUTH. (Received This Day, 9.40 a.m.) LONDON. June 23. It is authoritatively announced that the Allies have completed the capture of Mezze (near Damascus) and have also occupied two forts in the Mevj lyun sector.