Coup d'Etat in Iraq
The sequel to the coup d'etat in Iraq which has been so warmly welcomed by the Italian Press is that Sayid Rashid el Gailani, who resigned the Premiership last January because he was opposed to the policy of breaking off relations with Italy in spite of the Anglo-Iraq alliance, has seized power with the help of a clique of generals at Baghdad, and has forced the Prime Minister to resign. The regent, Emir Abdul Ilan, with- drew from the capital, and is reported to have broadcast a proclamation calling on the people to "reject rebellious elements." The former Mufti of Jerusalem, who has so often been ready to stir up trouble in the name of Pan-Arabism, has been not without influence on the politicians and soldiers who have assumed power. Sayid Rashid, in a broadcast to the nation, says cryptically that the new Government aims at the fulfilment of Iraq's mission as a nation, but adds that it intends to fulfil all the country's international obligations, especially the Anglo-Iraq Treaty. Sir Kinahan Cornwallis, the new British Ambassador, who has just arrived in Baghdad, will doubtless seek assurances on this point. Conflicting reports continue to arrive, one of which said that Iraq troops had occupied an R.A.F. aerodrome near Baghdad. Such reports must be received with reserve till more reliable news comes through. But it is evident that Axis fifth-columnism has been at work in an effort to get rid of a constitutional Government which was loyal to Great Britain.
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