The War in Africa
A fact which we ought not to allow ourselves or our friends to forget is that this country, which two years ago had no more than the skeleton of an Army, is now con- ducting with the Dominions and our Allies three campaigns on land against the forces of Germany, Italy and Vichy France —in East Africa, North Africa and Syria. Victory in East Africa is already assured, but in the huge spaces of a moun- tainous country the process of clearing up takes time. The capture of Assab last week disposed of the Italians' last outlet to the sea, and every day since then has brought its tale of surrenders. Already South African forces have been released for service in the North. It is in Egypt and Libya that the greatest danger has to be faced. There the Italians are strongly supported by Germans and powerful German air squadrons which are using the Libyan air-bases surrendered in our with- drawal. At any moment a major attack on our vital positions commanding Suez and the Canal seemed about to be launched. General Wavell has again been beforehand, himself taking the initiative in a strong attack which, though limited in scope, is at least likely to derange the enemy's plans for an offensive. A surprise movement by our troops enabled them to penetrate enemy positions as far as Fort Capuzzo, and compelled the bringing up of reinforcements from the Tobruk area.
