WHY MUSSOLINI HESITATES

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21248, 19 October 1940, Page 6

WHY MUSSOLINI HESITATES

The British War Minister’s visit to Egypt coincides with intense diplomatic activity resulting from Germany’s south-eastern drive. The two sets of circumstances are closely connected, for there is not a shadow of doubt that Hitler intends by driving down through the Balkans and Turkey to facilitate the attack on Egypt and the Suez Canal. The enemy’s North African offensive towards Alexandria is “ hanging fire ” for reasons which are fairly obvious. Britain has a powerful army in Egypt which would be a formidable obstacle to the Italians after a long and exhausting desert trek. Mussolini seems disposed to wait for assistance from another quarter. Germany has succeeded in keeping the Balkans position fluid; hence the diplomats of several nations are working feverishly to prevent the pincers from closing. The German “ jaw ” has a long way to go before it can be of assistance to the Italian part of the offensive, and the Libyan army’s wait may be long and exhausting. Turkey and Greece show not the slightest sign of making way for the German advance. If they stand firmly on their ground, Mussolini will have to fall back on his lone task of penetrating the Western Desert and attempting to defeat the British Egyptian Army. Mr Eden’s visit no doubt has the object of improving the organisation and stiffening the morale of the defenders of Egypt, and his friendly discussions with King Farouk will be Welcomed. Cheering news concerning the quality of the British forces in Egypt comes from a New York Times correspondent at Cairo. “If anyone who is inclined to be pessimistic concerning the outcome of the war between Britain and Italy could visit the British forces in the Western Desert,” he writes. “ pessimism would soon vanish. First-class troops, including some of Britain’s crack regiments, New Zealanders, Australians, Rhodesians, Cypriots, French and Czechs, all strong, sturdy and sun-browned, are working in unity and harmony to defend the cause which they believe to be right and just. The clockwork organisation of equipment, which was recently reinforced by the latest models, is most impressive.” That is the very substantial reason why the Italian army has halted and why Mussolini is waiting for help from another quarter.