The Rebellion in Iraq
The rebellion in Iraq has not gone according to the German plan, partly because the Germans themselves, delayed first in Greece and now in Crete, have not been able to keep to their time-table or to send the full help on which Rashid Ali counted. German aeroplanes are still flying via Syria to Mosul, but at present in smaller numbers. British troops have crossed to the east of the Euphrates at Falluja, and are not far from Baghdad, and our bombers have effectively punished the rebels. Arabs who have no liking for the war that has been thrust on them by Rashid Ali and his clique of corrupt colonels are impressed by the return to Iraq of the lawful Regent, Emir Abdul Ilah, who has issued a proclamation calling upon citizens and soldiers to co-operate with him in driving out the tyrannic group in the pay of the Axis. The lack of confidence felt by Rashid Ali's supporters is shown by the fact that three of his colleagues have gone to Iran, and another, his Defence Minister, has withdrawn to Turkey, while Rashid Ali himself has left Baghdad for Mosul. There is no doubt about our capacity to bring the rebel movement under control and rein- state the constitutional Government if there is time to do so before Germans arrive in greater force. Speed is of the essence of the matter. Not only is Mosul in the hands of the enemy, but at the moment of writing we have not yet secured Baghdad. We cannot consider the position free from great danger in this vital area till the rebellion is completely suppressed and the aerodromes are in our hands.
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