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Syrian Riots for Independence Continue, Military Rule Imposed

March 21, 1939
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New rioting caused a number of casualties here today after French authorities had placed the city under military rule. Police units were obliged to open fire this morning when several hundred persons staged angry demonstrations in the wake of disorders yesterday.

The military moves came after French High Commissioner Gabriel Puaux had informed the Syrian Government that French authorities would assume security and police powers to cope with the unsettled situation. The unrest results from friction between the Syrian Government and France over the latter’s failure to ratify the agreement granting Syria independence.

Troops began military occupation of the city this morning and the measures were expected to be completed by nightfall. Troop units were posted at the principal street intersections and in front of public buildings. The emergency measures are temporary, it was announced.

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