Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1933 - 1954), Monday 7 May 1934, page 11


FIGHTING IN ARABIA

Ibn Saud Defeats Yemen Forces CAIRO, May 5.

Ibn Saud has tightened up the conditions for an armistice, and has defeated the Yemenis. He demands the abdication of the Imam, five years'

occupation 01 the frontier regions, and the expulsion of the Asir princes from Yemen, which is now a Wahabi dominion. The Imam is holding prolonged war councils in the Palace of Seiful Islam. He is assembling his scattered forces and organising the defence of Sanaa, which he is determined to defend to the last gasp. The mountainous terrain between Sanaa and Hodeida will handicap the Saud's tanks and assist the Yemenis who are masters of mountain and guerilla fighting. For this reason the task of conquest will be prolonged. Feisal's forces are taking control of Hodeida. Ibn Saud undertakes responsibility for the administration of the territories occupied, and to be occupied, promising justice to everyone, and protection to foreigners.1 The British sloop, Penzance, transferred British and Indian residents and 300 foreigners from Hodeida to Kamaran Island. Ibn Saud is unlikely to accept the suggested mediation of King Faud. because Egypt hitherto has not recognised Ibn Saud's Government. ITALIAN WARSHIPS EN ROUTE. ROME, May 5. Three Italian warships have been dispatched from the Red Sea to Hodeida to protect' Italian Interests.