Office of the Historian

740.0011 European War 1939/5607: Telegram

The Minister in Egypt (Fish) to the Secretary of State

Cairo, September 20, 1940—4 p.m.
[Received September 21—5:41 p.m.]

209. Legation’s telegram No. 207, September 18, 4 p.m.13 Official sources report that the Italians have made no effort to advance further since their occupation of Sidi Barrani on Monday but are confining their activity to consolidation their position and establishing communications with the rear. British reconnaissance is reported to reveal no extensive troop movements in the rear and it is still an open question whether the Italians intend pressing their attack on Egypt to a decisive issue at this time. In the meantime British action by armored units and by air is being continued and supplemented by harrying operations by the British Fleet from Sidi Barrani to Bengazi.

The attitude of the Egyptian Government in respect of this situation still remains obscure. The Cabinet met yesterday for the first time since the Italian advance started on Sept. 13 but the views of the Ministers are understood to have been divergent and no decision was reached. Dr. Ahmed Maher Pasha made two speeches at Mansura yesterday strongly urging that Egypt take steps to defend itself and the Saadist Party is supporting him but the Prime Minister is understood to oppose Egypt’s becoming involved in hostilities at this time and most of the Cabinet are said to share his views. Since discussion of the matter seems to be taking a partisan turn it would not be surprising if a Cabinet crisis resulted. As far as can be ascertained the British are not attempting to force the issue.

Generally speaking public opinion in Egypt is opposed to becoming involved in war but at the same time there is no doubt that the vast majority of the population dislike the Italians intensely and hope for a British victory. Under the circumstances it seems probable that as matters progress the Egyptians, while hesitant to take up arms, may be disposed to lend certain assistance to the British such as turning over much needed military equipment.

Fish
  1. Not printed.↩