Intensive Axis preparations for an early offensive into Turkey, Syria and Palestine were indicated today in broadcasts from Rome to the Arab world on the occasion of the arrival of the Jerusalem ex-Mufti in Rome yesterday.
“The Grand Mufti has reached Rome just at a moment when important actions are being prepared for the prosecution of the war which will liberate the Arabs and secure for them their deserved freedom,” the Rome radio said. “The words of Mussolini and of Hitler are sufficient guarantee that the Axis victory will mean freedom for the Arab world and unity for their race.”
At the same time the broadcaster stressed the fact that “while Britain is helping the Zionists by sending them gifts and promises and while America sends Mr. Bullitt to visit the Jews of Palestine to express admiration and respect for them, the Axis countries are showing great sympathy and understanding for the Arab cause. The Axis powers are fully in accord with the desire of the Arabs to attain their self-government and independence.”
The Rome broadcast threatened severe punishment for Arab leaders who cooperate with the democracies. Commenting on the visit of several Syrian leaders to Palestine, the Rome radio said: “These so-called Syrian ministers who are sent to Palestine to visit the Jews will be punished when the day of freedom comes.”
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