The Battle for the Ebro After yet another week of
the most bitter fighting, the battle for the Ebro still continues, with the Republicans maintaining their positions on the south bank of the river. Descriptions of the battle emphasise the relentless artillery and air bombardment which the Republicans have suffered ; but their obstinate and successful resistance justifies the conclusion generally drawn,. that -even against the most modern armaments it is still possible for determined but less well-equipped troops to hold well-prepared positions. Losses on both sides have been heavy, but General Franco's the heavier ; the failure of his troops to advance in spite of intense preliminary bombardments is attributed to the deterioration in the quality of his infantry during the last year. The course of the war during the summer months has shown conclusively that there can be no prospect of an early insurgent victory, and indeed that deadlock must continue so long as the policy of non-intervention is inter- preted as it has been interpreted during the last two years. There is no sign, however, that the policy will be abandoned ; though it is clear that any further intensification of the crisis in Europe would have serious reactions in Spain, probably to the advantage of the Government. * * * *
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