BAGHDAD PRESS REVIEWS

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: R
• Document Page Count: 71
• Document Creation Date: December 15, 2016
• Document Release Date: December 13, 2001
• Sequence Number: 3
• Publication Date: March 21, 1951
• Content Type: REPORT

FORM N0. Approved For Release 20HR1~TIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
MAY 1949 51.61 CLASSIFICAI-IUN
CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY REPORT NO.
INFORMATION REPORT CD NO.
DATE DISTR. 21 March 1951
SUBJECT Baghdad Press Reviews
25X1A
DATE
ACQUIRED
NO. OF PAGES 1
NO. OF ENCLS. l8
(LISTED BELOW)
25X1A REPORT NOT TO
THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS INFORMATION AFFECTING THE NATIONAL DEFENSE
OF THE UNITED STATES WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE ESPIONAGE ACT SO
U. S C.. SI ANO St AS AMENDED. ITS TRANSMISSION OR THE REVELATION
OF ITS CONTENTS IN ANY MANNER TO AN UNAUTHORIZED PERSON 15 PRO-
HIBITED RY LAW. REPRODUCTION OF THIS FORM IS PROHIBITED
THIS IS UNEVALUATED INFORMATION
The following material is sent in the belief that it may be of interest:
Daily Reviews of the Baghdad Press, Baghdad, Iraq
These. attachments are of a free classification.
Encl: 18 press items.
25X1A
CLASSIFICATION RESTRICTED
25X1A
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 25X1A
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
D A I L Y R E V I E W"
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. Wednesday, February 21, 1951
Baghdad, Iraq.
IRAQI-LEBANESE TRAi)E AGREEMENT SIGNED.
The following official announcement has been released
by the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs:
"H.E. Abdul Majid Mahmud, Minister of Economics, and
H.E. Kadhem Al-Solh, Extraordinary Envoy and Plenipotentiary
Minister of the Lebanese Republic in Baghdad, met at the
Ministry of Economics at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 20,
1951, and on behalf respectively of the Iraq Government and of
the Lebanese Government signed the economic agreement between
Iraq and Lebanon." (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi)
JEWISH EMIGRATION.
The date limit for registering Jewish emigrants was set
for February 20; but, as registration offices are unable to
handle all the applications, the date is extended to March 8,
that is the expiry date of the denationalization law. However,
registration offices outside Baghdad have been closed; but,
applicants may call at the Baghdad office.
According to Al-Hawadith, no decision has been adopted
regarding the extension of the denationalization law for six
months.
As to the number of applicants, it amounts to about
100,000, (Al-Hawadith)
PREMIER NUR I AS-SAID LEAVING FOR BASRA.
Healing Premier Nuri As-Said is leaving for Basra to-
morrow for few days' rest. He may preside over the inaugural
ceremony of the Basra Branch of his party, set for February 23.
Several ministers and deputies will attend it. Dr. Dhia Jaffar,
Minister of Works and Communications, will fly to Basra tomorrow
to inspect the Port and the Railways installations. (Ash-Shaab)
According......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
February 21, 1951
According to Liwa Al-Istiglal, Premier Nuri As-Said,
after inaugurating the Basra Branch of his party, will cruise
the Indian Ocean on board of the Royal yacht, Ahmadi, as far as
Karachi. He will be attended by some of his close friends.
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Speaking of the newly-formed newspapermen's association,
Sada Al-Ahali remarks that this is not an innovation, because
there was such an organization but it was abolished by the
Martial Administration in 1949. The new draft press law, which
was opposed by the newspapermen, has made them realize the
necessity to have an association. A request was made in the
early days of the present government. The approval of the
Ministry of Interior was given after a long delay.
The paper calls on the newspapermen to "defend the
principle of the freedom of press" despite their own political
views. This association should be made to develop into a
"union."
Commenting on the "Washington Star's" suggestion that
Americans contribute to the repairs of the Prophet's shrine in
Medina, Ismail Ghanem, writing in Al-Yaadha with Palestine in
mind, asks in the headline of his article, "Do Moslems accept
that Americans repair their Prophet's shrine?" The answer is that
if they "accept any contribution from non-Moslem, whether Ameri-
can, British or else, they would stain their history in an
unprecedented manner."
The "washington Star's" suggestion that contribution
would help to gain Arab and Moslem sympathy is branded as an
"overt stratagem which the Americans would do better not to
rely on it", because it is a "bribe" for siding with "American
Imperialism" against "World Bolshevik tyranny."
Ismail Ghanem believes that "the Jewish agency may have
inspired the idea."
In connection with Saleh Jabr's reference to Communism
in his statement, Ash-Shaab says that Communist activities are
being exaggerated in the country. Indeed, there is a general
discontentment because of the need for social justice.
Ex-Staff.....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3 - February 21, 1951
Ex-Staff Colonel Haqqi Abdul Karim writes about the
American defense plans in Al-Akhbar.
We recall, he says, that when the U.S. entered World
War II, the people in Baghdad laughed at the figures of military
production given by President Roosevelt, as they could not
believe them.
Today, the U.S. is determined to check Russian aggression.
She is laying down plans to defend herself and to fulfil her
international obligations, and they are being carried out.
The Korean war proves the necessity of maintaining huge
forces for preserving peace anywhere in the world for fear from
the unlimited Soviet expansionsim. The Americans must have
plans which may be adapted to new weapons and to the requirements
of their foreign policy. The U.S.'s foreign policy, as backed by
her armed force, aims at present to the following:
1) She wants to preserve her own democratic regime and
her way of life against any aggression and at any cost.
2) She has divorced with the policy of appeasement
which has proved to be costly in lives and money.
3) She seeks peace for herself and the peace-loving
nations. Consequently, she upholds the UN and wants for it a
high prestige.
This year is to see many changes in the U.S.'s foreign
policy. She is planning the defense of Asia against Communism
and she is effectively participating in Korea. Experience since
1930 proves that the policy of appeasement leads to war.
The U.S. is making tremendous efforts to strengthen
Western Europe and the North Atlantic nations. Strong defense
is the only guarantee against Russia's greed and against the
Communist peril, prior to overcoming them. The U.S. does not
like to see Western Europe overrun by Communist forces and to
be forced to stage costly landings as in 1944.
Truman, in his June 27, 1950 statement, has underscored
the defense of the Philippines and of Indo-China. Indeed, the
Philippines with Japan and Okinawa constitutes the front line in
the Pacific. As for Formosa, the U.S. wants it to be held by a
friend of hers. Chiang Kai-Shek is the man. The U.S. is provid-
ing the French troops in Indo-China with arms and ammunitions
to fight the Communists.
The U.S. command sees still some dangerous spots, such
as Siam, Burma, Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey. the U.S. is help-
ing those countries earnestly fighting Communism.
The......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 4 -
February 21, 1951
The U.S. command believes that no enemy may defeat the
U.S. unless he controls Western Europe. Therefore, the U.S.
is reinforcing not only her land forces but also her navy and
air force.
General Eisenhower left New York on February 16 for
Europe to assume the supreme command of the NAT forces. He
will organize them so as they fulfil their task in case of
aggression. Holland will not be left helpless on the path of
a Communist invasion. France has sent large forces to Indo-
China; they have to be made up for. But, economic conditions in
Western Europe have improved; this will much help General
Eisenhower.
SHORT NEWS.
The trial of Ghadban As-Saad, author of the book "Korea
in the Parade of Freedom", has been postponed until February 27
upon the request of the Public Prosecutor. (Al-Alam Al-Arabi)
In connection with the current Syro-Iraqi trade talks,
informed circles believe that the agreement will be initialed
at the week-end. (Al-Umma)
After being examined by the Codification Department, the
draft law to replace the Dujaila Scheme Law is to be submitted
to the Council of Ministers by the Ministry of Economics. The
new law is called "Law for the Administration of the Miri Lands."
(A1-Umma)
E N D
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 25X1A
Approved For Release 2002/01/18: CIA-RDP83-00415R0 0
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. March 2, 1951
Baghdad, Iraq March 3, 1951
TEXT OF MPs' PROTEST AGAINST FRENCH RULE IN MOROCCO.
Here is the full text of the protest voted by the Chamber'
of Deputies on Thursday, March 1, and cabled to various heads of
states, governments and parliaments throughout the world:
"The Iraqi Chamber of Deputies considers the tyrannic
actions, the imperialistic persecutions and the barbarous pressure
on the Moroccans and His Eminence the Sultan to comply with the
will of the French authorities as inconsistent with human rights,
as an outrage against the rights of the Moroccan people struggl-
ing for their freedom and independence, and as a defy to the
Arab nation. This has aroused the strong indignation and dis-
contentment of its members. Unanimously it decided on March 1,
1951, to authorize me to condemn on behalf of its members the
actions of the French Government, and its tyrannic and hostile
policy which is contrary to Justice in an era when the continuance
of imperialism anywhere is condemned.
Ahmed Al-Amer,
Vice-President of the Chamber of Depu-
ties."
The protest was cabled to the following persons;
President of the U.S.A.
President of the U.S. Congress (sic)
The Prime Minister of the U.K.
The Speaker of the British House of Commons
The President of the French Republic
The President of the French National Assembly
The President of the U.S.S.R.
The President of the UN Security Council
The UN Secretary-General
The President of the Turkish Republic
The President of the Turkish National Assembly
The Prime Minister of Iran
The President of the Iranian Majlis
The Governor-General of Pakistan
The President of the Pakistan Constituent Assembly
The President of the Indian Republic
The .
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
2 - March 2 and 3, 1951.
The President of the Indian National Assembly
The President of the Indonesian Republic
The President of the Indonesian Chamber of Deputies
The Prime Minister of Afghanistan
The President of the Afghan Chamber of Deputies
The Prime Minister of Egypt
The President of the Egyptian Chamber of Deputies
The President of the Lebanese Republic
The President of the Lebanese Chamber of Deputies
The President of the Syrian Republic
The President of the Syrian Chamber of Deputies
The Prime Minister of Jordan
The President of the Jordan Chamber of Deputies
H.M. King Ibn Saud, King of the Arab Saudi Kingdom
H.M. Imam Ahmed, King of the Mutawakila Yemenite Kingdom
H.M. Mohammed V, Sultan of the Caliphate of Morocco
The Secretary-General of the Arab League
Sayid Allal Al-Fasi, Leader of the Moroccan Independence
Party.
The Liberation Committee for the Arab Maghreb.
(Liwa Al-Istiqlal. 3/2)
MARCH 1 MEETING OF THE CHAMBER OF DEPUTIES.
was
Thursday's meeting of the Chamber of DeputiesLdevoted to
the Moroccan case. However Justice Minister Hassan Sami Tatar
was sworn in as Deputy for 1iyala (District of Khanaqin). New
questions were put by deputies: Ahmed Al-Naqib is inquiring about
a statement made by Dr. Jamali about the defense of the Middle
East; Dhiban Al-Ghabban, about Jamali's statement branding China
as aggressor, and about siding with one of the two world camps.
64 deputies tabled a resolution asking the Chamber of
Deputies to protest against the actions of the French Government
in Morocco and the Iraq government to adopt economic and diploma-
tic sanctions against France after consulting with the other Arab
states. The text of the resolution reads as follows:
"H.E. the President-of the Chamber of Deputies,
"French imperialistic tyranny in Morocco has reached its
peak lately as General Juin, the French Resident, is threatening
the Sultan with dethronment unless he subdues to him and carries
out France's imperialistic wishes. That is why, we ask that
this proposal of ours be submitted to the High Assembly for
authorizing the Presidency to cable to the UN, the Big Powers,
and their parliaments in the name of our High Assembly, in order
to put on record the Iraqi people's and the Chamber's condemna-
tion, so as to protest against French aggression, to consider
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R00770012e ? ? ? ?
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
-3-
March 2 and 3, 1951.
France as an aggressor and to impose sanctions. Presidency
should cable also to the Arab states, their League, and their
parliaments in order to adopt the necessary measures to check
French effervescence by all available diplomatic and economic
means so as it heads and complies with the Moroccan people's
demands for freedom, sovereignty and independence."
Izziddin Al-Naqib, elaborating on the resolution suggested-
that Iraq breaks diplomatic and economic relations with France
as a means of pressure. The idea was supported by Mohammed
Siddiq Shanshal Ahmed Aj-Jalili, Abdul Karim Kanna, Ismail
Ghanem, Dhiban Al-Ghabban, Daud Aj-Jaf, and Faiq As-Samerrai.
Abdul Karim Kanna said French actions in Morocco are
reminiscent of France's behaviour in Syria in 1945. Ismail
Ghanem accused Britain of connivance, saying that without its
assent France would have refrained. Dhiban Al-Ghabban pointed
that economic sanctions would hit at France's share of the
Iraqi oil.
To Interior Minister Omar Nadhmi's remark that the govern-
ment has received no official information about developments in
Morocco, Faiq As-Samerrai retorted that the Arab League discuss-
ed the matter at its last meeting.
In the end, the Chamber voted unanimously for the protest
which Ahmed Al-Amer sent on its behalf. (Az-Zaman. 3/2)
INDEPENDENCE PARTY'S MANIFESTO RE MOROCCO.
In a manifesto issued by Mohammed Mahdi Kubba, the
Independence Party says, "The ordeal of Morocco is a test for
the UN. Once again, the Arab public feels the extent to which
the Western camp is attached to the UN charter. In case aggre-
ssion has any significance, and the Western camp is aware of its
responsibility for checking aggression, here is France, a
member of the camp, striving to impose imperialism contrarily
to the principles of the UN, to the principle of self-determina-
tion, to the rules of international justice and to the human
rights."
The manifesto concludes, "The Independence Party calls
on the Iraqi people to ask the government for the necessary
measures to break diplomatic and economic relations with France,
for stunmoning the Arab League to have the other Arab governments
adopt a similar stand, and for, at the same time, taking the
matter to the UN. France's imperialistic policy is overtly
inconsistent with the UN and, thus, places it in the position
of aggressor ~aggaa~inst the rights of the Arab people of Morocco."
(Liwa AAppro ea i-or*Release 2002/Q1/i84 CIA-RDP83-00415R007700j2 0 0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
March 2 and 3, 1951.
JEWISH EMIGRATION.
Following the press report that the period for the dena-
tionalization of Jews will not be extended beyond March 9, the
number of applicants has considerably increased so that the
registration offices at the Meer Tuweig Synagogue is remaining
open until after midnight, reports Az-Zaman.
The number of application forms has jumped to 37,500
representing about 100,000 names. It is expected to increase
still more up to 120,000 names.
In February, the Council of Ministers approved the dena-
tionalization of 20,964 persons. Quoting Al-Tlidhal newspaper,
of Mosul, Az-Zaman says that all the Jews of Mosul have reigster-
ed for emigration. (Az-Zaman. 3/2)
Quoting Deputy-Premier Towfiq As-Suwaidi, Al-Hawadith
(3/2) affirms that the period of denationalization will not be
extended beyond March 8.
The actual number of emigrants who left Iraq is 32,000.
The Council of Ministers has already approved the application
of 90 , 000 Jews.
The Council of Ministers has decided to consider the Jews
stripped of their nationality and still in Iraq after March 8 as
foreigners subjected to the Residence Law.
However, the transportation of denationalized Jews will
be intensified; and all of them will be taken away within two
months from the dateline of March $. Nevertheless, the Jews who
retain their Iraqi nationality, will be regarded as Iraqi citi-
zens with full civic rights.
The Chief Rabbi of the Jewish community in Basra explains
in an official announcement that the attempt made against his
life was instigated by the committeecharged with the transporta-
tion of the Jewish emigrants in Basra. According to the announce.
ment, on February 22, some persons went into his official
residence and starting beatin him to death; but, he was rescued
by "some Jews and Moslems." (Al-Akhbar. 3/3)
Dr. Dhia.....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
-5-
March 2 and 3, 1951..
Dr. Dhia Jaffar, the Minister of Works and Communications,
will fly to Baghdad from Bahrain, leaving behind Premier Nuri
As-Said who is still cruising in the Persian Gulf. (Az-Zaman.
3/3)
According to Abdul Majid Mahmud, Minister of Economics,
the Iraqi and the Syrian trade delegations will initial a trade
agreement early this week. (Az-Zaman. 3/3)
This morning the new Egyptian Minister will present
his credentials. ~Az-Zaman. 3/3)
The Council of Ministers has decided to permit Japanese
ships to enter into Iraqi ports. (Al-Nabaa. 3/2)
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 25X1A
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415 0
D A I L Y R E V I E W
or the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. March 1, 1951.
Baghdad, Iraq.
REGENT TO STAY IN LONDON ANOTHER WEEK.
According to a London message, Emir Abdul Ilah, Regent
of Iraq, will remain in the British capital until March 8.
(Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi)
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
After stressing the usefulness of the direct electoral
system, Liwa Al-Istiglal says that the proposal submitted by the
deputies is a test" for the government's "reform program."
Sada Al-Ahali speaks of the Karachi conference. It
underscores that the Islamic states need to establish closer
relations and to form a bloc of their own. But, the conference
has failed to point out the danger arising from imperialism;
it should have, first of all, decided to resist the existing
foreign influence on the Islamic states being exercized either
directly or indirectly. Moreover, the conference should have
studied the internal conditions of the Islamic states. These
two points should have been given more attention by the confe-
rence,
The conference should have examined French tyranny over
Morrocco, the presence of British bases in Iraq, Jordan and
Egypt, the fact that Britain has placed its air bases in the
Arab states at the disposal of the U.S., and the other fact
that despite their wealth the Islamic states are living in a
state of misery.
In the end, the paper asks for other conferences, but
which would be more representative of the people and which would
thoroughly examine the various problems facing the Islamic states.
Speaking ......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 2 - March 1, 1951.
g off' ~..e ~~ac~si plan for Arab federation, A -Aw at
A1-Baghdadiva says that it favors a federation provided that all
the Arab states are really independent and that it is being
done by the free assent of the people.
The Qudsi plan was put forward to keep the Arabs busy
until the League passed its "historical" decision of siding with
the West. When this phase was over, an American source has
begun to talk of the "Fertile Crescent". Indeed, all these
plans are meant to bind the Arab states to the West and to
consolidate its imperialistic influence over them.
As-Siiil believes that Deputy-Premier Towfiq As-Suwaidi
should have resigned following the criticisms to which he has
been sub,iected in parliament. The paper considers him as a
"very educated" man with a strong personality, but unfortunately
"materialistic."
SHORT NEWS.
The Chamber of Deputies has been notified of the election
of Justice Minister Hassan Sami Tatar for the electoral district
of Khanaqin (Diyala Liwa). He was uncontested. Thus, there
remains one vacancy in parliament; it is due to the fact that
Diwali Doski was sentenced imprisonment; however, the government
has not announced any by-election for the vacancy. (Al-Alam
Al-Arabi).
Requests have come from Najaf that the Iraqi government
uses its good offices with the Syrian government in behalf of
Abbas Hamid Al-Kharasan, the Iraqi student implicated in the
murder attempt against Col. Shishakly, in order that he be
allowed to have a lawyer to defend him. (Al-Alam Al-Arabi),.
The B.P.C.. workers' strike is nine-day old now..
(Al-Alam Al-Arabi)
The Chamber of Deputies is convening today. (Ash-Shaab)
Mohammed......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
-3-
March 1, 1951.
Mohammed As-Seoud, Assistant Chief of the Mechanical
Engineers of the ISR, and Ziwar Nashat, Chief Architect of the
ISR, are the ISR's candidates for two UN fellowships. (Sada
Al-Ahali)
The Ministry of Finance means to draft an interim
budget for the month of April and May, in order to have time
to prepare the general budget. (Al-Umma)
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. Sunday, March 4, 1951
Baghdad, Iraq. Monday, March 5, 1951
PREMIER NURI AS-SAID DUE IN BAGHDAD TODAY.
Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi (3/5) reports:
"We have learned that H.E. Premier Nuri As-Said will
arrive in Baghdad from Basra today by air. The tentative
hour for his arrival is 2 p.m."
THE BPC WORKERS' STRIKE.
DG of Labor and Social Security Abdul Razzak Ibrahim
returned in Baghdad after visiting Basra on instruction from
the Ministry of Social Affairs to examine the causes of the
B.P.C. workers' strike.
He stated that the number of the B.P.C. workers on
strike from the Zubair area is 300; others of the Maqina area
have gone on strike in sympathy with them. The workers' main
demands are: 1) a 50% wages increase, 2) payment for two extra
hours daily for crossing the distance between their residence
and their working place, and 3) payment for the days of the
strike.
He added that the company is prepared to implement the
provisions of the Labor Law. Summing up the case, he said
that the company is not prepared to negotiate unless the workers
stop their strike and that the workers do not want to return to
work unless their main demands are carried out. Moreover, the
company suggested to deduce the days of the strike from the
workers' leaves, and to shorten the distance between their work-
ing place and their residence. (Al-Alam Al-Arabi. 3/4)
On the 12th day of the strike, the strike committee says
that the meeting with the company's representatives has been
inconclusive.
Supports......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
2 - March 4 and 5, 1951.
Supports to the strike has come from the workers of
the Iraq Grain Grinding Co., the union of the Printing Press
Workers in Baghdad, and the Union of Cigarettes Factories
Workers in Baghdad. (Al-Alain Al-Arabi. 3/4)
According to reports from Basra, the strike is taking
a "more serious turn." None of the arrested workers has been
released.
According to the Propaganda Department news bulletin, the
DG of Labor and Social Security left once again for Basra to
settle the strike. (A1-Nabaa. 3/5)
The BPC Workers' strike, says Liwa Al-Istiglal (3/5),
is not the first of its kind; on several occasions, workers have
been forced to defend their rights against foreign companies'
unfairness. Moreover, workers employed by foreign companies
should get better treatment for: 1) they are exploiting the
country's resources and 2) they are foreign companies which know
of the labor legislation in the world.
The demands of the B.P.C. workers are "fundamental" and
provided for not only in foreign legislation but also in the
Iraqi.
The government should not hesitate to submit to parliament
labor laws, providing for individual labor contract and social
security because the labor problem threatens the country's
security and stability as long as foreign companies are persist-
ing in their arbitrary treatment of the workers.
More than 1,500 families says Mohammed Mahdi Aj-Jawahery
in Al-Awgat Al-Baghdadiya (3/4S, are exposed to privation and
hunger because of the arbitrary measures of a "foreign and
imperialistic company." What they are asking for is only part
of what the rights they are entitled to under the Constitution
and other laws.
Speaking of the strike, Sada Al-Ahali (3/4) says that
the B.F.C. is not only exploiting the country's resources but
also its manpower and is humiliating the workers. As for the
government....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
3 -
March 4 and 5, 1951.
government, besides overlooking the oil companies' contraven-
tions of the concession terms, it is using its police force to
terrorize the workers when asking for their rights.
The government should back the workers' demands, and not
the company as it did recently together with the representatives
of the Majority Party.
Abdul Jabbar Mallaq, Chairman of the Constitutional
Union Party's Basra Branch, denies officially that representa-
tives of the party threatened the B.P.C. workers on strike during
the meeting held by the company's representatives, the workers,
and by the DG of Labor and Social Security. He admits that one
representative of the party attended the meeting with the
intention of protecting the workers' rights. (Al-Ittihad Ad-
Dasturi. 3/4)
According to the Sharq Al-Adna. Radio the Arab League
Secretariat is to summon the AL Political 6ommittee for an
urgent meeting to consider the Moroccan case. The tentative
date for the meeting is Saturday, March 10.
Despite the ban on demonstrations, students in Cairo
carried on and have marched to the Arab League headquarters
urging Azzam Pasha to lead the "Arab Jihad" against Imperialism.
(Az-Zaman. 3/5)
After stressing that the League is an "ineffective
political instrument" and that imperialism throughout the
world is solidary and indivisible (Holland was helped by
Britain and the U.S.A. in Indonesia; France by the U.S.A. in
Morocco), Sada Al-Ahali (3/5) says, "The Arab peoples and their
popular organizations should play an effective role in directing
aid to the 1'ioroccan people in their present struggle against
French imperialism, either by sending direct aid to Morocco
itself or by fighting Imperialism in their own country."
Commenting on the reported refusal of the French Ambassa-
for in Cairo to receive the Egyptian Foreign Minister for
discussing the Moroccan case on the ground that it is France's
business only, A1-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi (3/4) deems it a "strange
to i......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 4 - March 4 and 5, 1951.
logic", because international practice and the UN charter allow
the Arab states to intervene in behalf of an Arab people. In
fact, the Arab states are defending their own interests because
those of the Arab peoples are "indivisible." France, concludes
the paper, should "better do to give up its imperialistic andt~
terroristic policy which has brought about catastrophes only."
Today's front page headlines read:
Al-Nabaa (3/5): "French aircrafts bomb Fez and destroy
its mosques."
Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi(3/5): "King Abdulla lends full
attention to French acts of aggression in Morocco."
Al-Umma (3/5): "Frenchmen outrage mosques in Fez."
Al-Alam Al-Arabi (3/5):
"Frenchmen shell Fez."
Sada Al-Ahali (3/5): "French shells pour into Fez."
Az-Laman (3/5) : "Did French artillery shell Fez?"
SHORT NEWS.
Hashim Al-Hilli, of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
has returned after attending the UN session. (Liwa Al-Istiglal.
3/5)
The Iraqi Airways is to help fly Jewish emigrants. The
government means to have 1000 denationalized Jews leave Iraq
daily after the dateline of March 8. (Al-Hawadith. 3/5)
On March 4, the new Egyptian Minister presented his
credentials to the hegency Council. (Az-Zaman. 3/5)
According to the Minister of Economics, Dr. Nadim Al-
Pachachi's trip to London on March 12 is connected with project
of the oil refinery. (Az-Zaman. 3/5)
The....??
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 :
CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
-5-
March 4 and 5, 1951.
The Minister of Interior has appointed Fadhil Awni,
Mumayiz of the Administrative Affairs, as Director of
Municipalities. (Ash-Shaab. 3/5)
The Chamber of Deputies is meeting today. (Ash-Shaab. 3/5)
The Iraqi agreement has agreed to the Swiss-proposed air
agreement and has requested the Swiss government to appoint the
representative who will sign it. (Az-Zaman. 3/4)
The Court of Cassation has upheld the decision of the
Court of Sessions and of the Criminal Court of First Instance,
ordering the arrest of Chadban As-Saad, author of "Korea in the
Parade of Freedom". (Sala Al-Ahali. 3/4)
Having appealed against the Criminal Court's sentence
of six months' imprisonment with respite, Mohammed Amin Al-Hakim,
responsible Mudir of Al-Istiglal newspaper, and Adnan Ar-Rawi,
as author of the punishable articles, have had their sentence
commuted by the Court of Sessions into a fine amounting to ID.50
and, in case of failing to pay, three months' prison. Their
defense counsel is to appeal to the Court of Cassation. (Sada
Al-Ahali. 3/4)
Abdul Malik Al-Khedairi, Second Counselor in the London
Embassy has been promoted to the rank of Minister Plenipoten-
tiary. (A1-Akhbar. 3/4)
In order to speed up the transportation of Jewish emigrants
the Council. of Ministers has allowed the Near Eastern Airline Co.
to fly them to airfields of countries not having diplomatic rela-
tions with Iraq. Previously, the Council's decision was that the
planes should fly to countries having diplomatic relations with
Iraq. (Al-Umma, 3/4)
Despite the fact that Iraq is still at war with Japan, the
Council of Ministers has granted to Japanese ships the permission
to harbor into Iraqi ports. (Al-Umma. 3/4)
E N D
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved ForDR(klerjseL20102/01A,18J1 WIAIRI$PW3-00415R00770(?9?&0
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
F~'~assv of the U.S.A. Tuesday, March 6, 1951.
Baghdad, Iraq.
PREMIER NURI AS-SAID RETURNS TO CAPITAL.
Premier Nuri As-Said returned from Basra by air. He
arrived yesterday at 6 p.m.
Dr. Dhia Jaffar, the Minister of Works and Communications,
returned too by air. (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi)
SYRO-IRAQI TRADE AGREEMENT INITIALED.
Yesterday evening, the Syro-1-agi trade agreement was
initialed. The Syrian delegation is ft ,'.ng this morning to
Damascus. According to Economics Minister Abdul Majid Mahmud,
in addition to the trade aggi~eement, another for transit has been
drawn up, plus two anne::es one for duty- "ree foodstuffs and the
other for goods with.a reduced tariff. (Az-Zaman)
MARCH 5 MEETING OF THE CHAMBER OF DEPUTIES.
At yesterday's meeting of the Chamber of Deputies, it
was announced that the Supplement to the Development Board Law
has been received by the Chamber. (The Supplement authorizes
the Board to dispose of the IBRD loan for the Tharthar Valley
Project)
Cables of appreciation for the Chamber's stand on the
Moroccan case were read out. The senders are Jordan Premier
Samir Pasha Ar-Rif aye, Allal Al-Fasi, who is in Tangier, and
AL Secretary Azzam Pasha. The Chamber was informed of the letter
of the Saudi Minister in Baghdad, conveying King Ibn Saud' s
"appreciation' for its stand.
Mohammed Mahdi Kubba, referring to the reported meeting
of the AL Political Committee slated for March 10, inquired about
the measures contemplated by the Iraq Governne nt and suggested
retaliations against France's economic and cultural interests.
Thirteen......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
2 - March 6, 1951.
Thirteen deputies nave tabled a resolution for extending
for another year the law suspending payments of mortgaged debts.
The Chamber approved the second amendment to the Law for
selling and renting Government Properties. The amendment is to
extend the period of lease to charitable associations to a maxi-
rcim limit of 90 years. Khalil Ismail protested against the
length of period and proposed. its cutting down to 50 years. But,
Finance Minister Abdul Wahab Marjan explained that the purpose of
the amendment is to enable the Dar As-Salam Association to build ur
a large hospital.
The Chamber switched to the law for additional alloca-
tions to the 1950 budget. Before the debate was over, it
adjourned until Thursday, March 8. (Az-Zaman)
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Speaking of idorocco, Al-Ittihad A,?-Dasturi blames the
West and particularly the U.S. for inaction towards French
tough raandli.ng; of Moroccan affairc,, J-h .per says, "France
is 1 azing ioroccan towns one 'by on,-, ,nd :it is bombing the un-
armed population, destroying 1h1o,i: es &-xd spreading death, terror
and destruction. Disappoint i.lgly, no poi^e is being raised at
the UN to stop this imperialistic despotism and these barbarous
acts inconsistent with any of the UN's human rights. At least
a feeble voice was hoped to be raised in Washington or London
condemning this barbarous aggression of. France."
Commenting on the U.S. government's request to the
French authorities to settle the differences in Morocco amicably,
the paper notes that the U.S. request was not heeded as the French
are killing Moroccans by "thousands", -in d sees no basis for it
because after all Moroccans are entitled to freedom and independe-
nce in accordance with the Atlantic 'charter "bearing the seal of
the U.S. Government."
Questioning the American motives, the paper adds,
"Indeed, ti:.e U.S. Governments request is a cover to ignore
the demands for assistance to Morocco. That is why, we believe
that it is true that the French and the American governments have
agreed during General Juin's visit to the U.S. to give France
a free hand in Morocco against granting military bases to the
U.S. there."
Referring.....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
-3-
March 6, 1951.
Referring to the report that the first shipment of the
material for these air bases have arrived in Morocco from the
U.S., the paper remarks indignantly, "'thus, the U.S. for the sake
of such bases is sacrificing any principle of human justice
and is disregarding any commitment to uphold the peoples' rights
and to serve freedom and peace."
The paper concludes, "Morocco represents a new test for
t'hr Arab world's faith in the principles of freedom and peace.
Experience shows that the people's rights depend on their struggle.
Moroccans are in a continual struggle for their freedom and
honor. The Arab peoples must rely on themselves and on their
own measures in support of the Moroccans. Indeed, Morocco's
struggle is the one of the whole Arab world."
"The Arab states, as they are now, have no weight,"
asserts General Taha Al-Uashi;ni in Liwa Al-Istiglal. As evi-
dences, he cites the French policy in i occo and the refusal
of the French Ambassador in Cairo to discuss it with the Egyptian
Foreign Minister. That is why, t, h,.- Arab world has to strive for
its unity.
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18: CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0 25X1A
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. March 7, 1951.
Baghdad, Iraq.
IRAQI DELEGATION TO ARAB LEAGUE.
Today, the Council of Ministers is to examine the Arab
League Secretariat's invitation to the AL Political Committee's
meeting and to appoint the Iraqi delegation.
According to some rumors, Premier Nuri As-Said will head
the delegation unless he is tied down by important affairs.
In this case, Deputy-Premier Towfiq As-Suwaidi will lead it.
The members of the delegation are to be Musa Ash-Shabandar,
Minister in Damascus, Najib Ar-Rawi, Minister in Cairo, and
Yussef Gailani, of the Foreign Office.
The same delegation will attend the new Arab League
session to begin after the AL Political Committee's meeting.
(Al-Hawadith)
COMMUNIST UTUERGROUND.
kl-Nabaa reports, "The CID's attention has been struck
recently by sudden activities on the part of Communists. It
counteracted by arresting a large number of them including some
employees of the DG of Imports. During the search, the CID
got hold of many documents and publications. We withhold any
details as the investigation is still going on."
As-Siiil reports, "The CID is displaying marked activities
these days, as it is examining important cases. We have learned
that the police has discovered a roneo printing press in Erbil."
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Capitalizing on the Morocco case, Al-Umma blames the
government for inaction when all the Iraqis and the Arabs every-
where are condemning French tyranny. "It is shameful" says the
paper......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 2 - March 7, 1951.
paper, "that the government looks to the matter as though it
were not its business."
The criticism of the government is due to the Minister
of Interior's remark in parliament that it will take appropriate
actions when official information are received. The paper
ironically asks from where the information are to be received.
If the press reports are not true, how then the U.S. which is the
"mother of imperialism" has been forced to condemn French
outrages? Moreover, how the Arab League is to hold a meeting
for examining the matter?
The paper concludes, "Ye, the men in power, France's
barbarous aggression against Morocco has reached the maximum
limit, as French troops have outraged worship places, and French
artillery is decimating Moroccans, slaughtering aged persons,
women and children. If you are prevented from acting, make it
known to the people so that they will be aware of your motives,
as the people are talking of Morocco day and night."
Blasting France, Tahsin Ali, writing in Az-Z_aman, says,
""The French government which falsely claims to be the alma
matter of freedom and the champion of the weak peoples, is the
most tyrannic and the cruelest imperialistic government on
earth."
After recalling French bombing of Damascus, Tahsin All
points out that France is forgetting that the Arabs of the
Maghreb fought and died for France during the two world wars,
and they are still fighting in Indochina.
Tahsin All would like the Arabs states to do more than
sending a protest and he suggests "boycotting" France.
PROTESTS AGAINST FRENCH ADMINISTRATION OF MOROCCO.
In a protest to be communicated to all diplomatic
missions in Iraq the President of the Iraqi Newspapermen's
Association says:
"...The Iraqi Newspapermen's Association has to protest
strongly against France's imperialistic policy in Morocco and
to urge the Arabs and their rulers to support Morocco's struggle
for freedom by all means.... The Arabs, governments and peoples,
have to put an end to the imperialistic despotism in their
country in general and in Morocco in particular in order to
ensure their freedom and their unity." (As-Zaman )
The.....,
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3
March 7, 1951.
The President of the Lawyer's Association has also
lodged a protest addressed to the UN Secretary and to all
foreign missions. He says, "France, which claims to defend
the free world, is re-sorting to violence and cruelty to deny
the i Moroccan people their freedom. The silence of the Big
Powers and the UN regarding the injustices and outrages of
French imperialism in the Maghreb gives the lie to any
idealistic appeal and arises doubt about the moral values and
the Charter of the UN. France's actions constitute an overt
aggression which must be resisted. Inaction is contrary to
justice and the norms of international law." (Az-Zaman)
SHORT NEWS.
The Higher Committee of the Constitutional Union Party
has been summoned for a meeting this afternoon to examine "some
draft laws and other matters." (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is making the necessary
arrangements with the Egyptian government for raising diplomatic
representation to the ambassadorial rank. (Al-Hawadith)
According to Reuter, Mr. McGhee is due in Baghdad for
a two-day visit. He will confer with Premier Nuri As-Said.
(Liwa Al-Istiqlal)
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
25X1A
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
B A G H D A D
P R E S S
Thursday,
February
22,
1951
Embassy of the
U.S.A.
Friday,
February
23,
1951
Baghdad, Iraq.
Saturday,
February
24,
1951
BASRA BRANCH OF CONSTITUTIONAL PARTY INAUGURATED.
On Friday, October 23, Premier Nuri As-Said, in his
capacity of Leader of the Constitutional Union Party, opened
the inaugural ceremony of the Basra Branch of his party. The
rally was attended by Education Minister Khalil Kanna, Justice
Minister Hassan Sami Tatar, and Dr. Dhia Jaffar, Minister of
Works and Communications. (Al-Akhbar. 2/24)
Commenting on the inauguration of the Basra Branch,
Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi (2/23) writes, "The party adds a new
victory to its record during its so short life of one year
and some months. The party has proved during its struggle
whether in the political, social, cultural or economic field
that it is an organization from the people and is based on the
pillars of trust, sincerity and clear planning. The party
has been rewarded by the fact that a large number of persons
have applied to it, believing in the leadership of Nuri As-Said
and supporting his principles and aims with all the moral and
material force they have. The members feel that they are doing
for a party which has devoted all its potential, sincerity and
ability to serving the nation and raising the people's living
standard."
ADMINISTRATION CHANGES.
Royal -radas have been issued transferring Kamal Ibrahim,
DG of Propaganda, and Hassan Ad-Dujaili, Baghdad Radio Chief,
to the teaching staff. Consequently, the Ministry of Interior
has decided to entrust the post of the DG of Propaganda to
Khalil Ibrahim in an interim capacity. Khalil Ibrahim was until
recently attache to the Iraqi Legation in Paris.
Other Royal Iradas were issued ordering the following
transfers and appointments:
Lazar......
? Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
2 - Feb. 22, 23 and 24, 1951.
Lazar Ibrahim, Qaimaqam of Raniya, to Makhmur
Mohammed Abdul Rahman, Qaimaqam of Daqoq, to Koysenjeq
Abdul Qadir Mohyiddin, Qaimaqam of Koysenjeq, to
headquarters of the Kirkuk Liwa
Ismail Ali Ash-Shaikh, Mudir of Qara Hassan, appointed
Qaimagam of Raniya. (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi. 2/22)
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Writing in Al-Awoat A1-Baghdadiya (2/23), a paper belong-
ing to Zaki Ahmed and now edited by Mohammed Mahdi Aj-Jawahery,
ex-Senator Sadeq Al-Bassam hits the Anglo-Arab alliance and
the way the Arab countries are governed. He deplores that the
Arabs rid themselves of the Ottoman rule to fall under the
"worse subservience to London and to Washington."
He underscores the nationalist character of the Arab
Revolt; but, the subservience to Britain has cropped up after
the partition of the Arab world by their so-called allies after
World War I. The "free Arabs" are resisting foreign influence
covered by so-called treaties of alliance and protocols of
common defense; but, they have been "denounced" and "accused
of promoting some other foreign influence." What they want,
in fact, is to set "the governments on sound national bases."
As for the Arab politicians, it is high time for them,
as vuorld War III is seen at the horizon, to be fairer towards
the people and to submit to its will after it has submitted to
theirs for 30 years.
Commenting on Stalin's latest statement, Sada Al-Ahali
(2/23) believes that he hit more Britain than the U.S.; maybe
he meant to draw the attention of the Labor Party's rank-and-
file, and especially the "progressive" elements thereof, about
the responsibility of Britain for driving the world to war by
its compliance to the U.S.
Switching to the Istanbul conference of the U.S. diplomats,
the paper says, "It is obvious that the U.S. is meddling with
Middle Eastern affairs more and more. It intends to tie the
area to its political and military plans in one way or other,
in the name of defending it against aggression and in the name
of offering it economical and technical aid. All that is to
pave the way to bring it into the Western bloc, either through
the Mediterranean pact or by means of the Atlantic Pact."
Referring....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3 -
Feb. 22, 23 and 24, 1951.
Referring to McGhee's visit to Egypt and to the press
report that he is carrying an Anglo-American agreement for the
use of the British air bases in Egypt by American planes, the
paper adds, "It seems that the results of the Istanbul conference
are seriously affecting the existnce, security and fate of the
Arab states. The air network to be set up in the area means
harm to it..."
Commenting on the Istanbul conference, Al-Nabaa presumes
that the American envoys must have discussed the alternative of
binding the area to the North Atlantic Treaty or to set up the
Mediterranean bloc. It believes that Turkey prefers to have
the leadership of the Mediterranean bloc; but, the main two
obstacles to such a pact is the Alexandretta Province problem
and the Falestine question.
"How the 1yest may win the confidence of the Arab
world?" asks Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi (2/22) in the headline of
its editorial. The answer is that it "should stop defying the
Arabs' right and aspirations."
When thu, Arabs sided with the Democratic powers against
the Axis, they were aware that the former were not sinless.
However, they hoped a change of attitude towards the Arab world.
Even, this hope has been disappointed because of Palestine and
of the French rule of North Africa.
Speaking of the "peace crusade", Salman Shaikh Daud,
writing in Al-Hawadith (2/24), remarks that "Moscow trumpets
peace day and night." But, the matter is whether it is "earnest
or not." Indeed, peace is the desire of all. If Moscow were
"earnest", everyone would have backed it. It is true that there
are some Western statesmen who are promoting war in order to
control the world, but they would have been a neglected minority,
if the Soviet policy was not resorting to expansionism and
conquest by force.
After assailing the Jews of Iraq as "intruders", blaming
their business partners for their patronship, and deploring
the slowness of their exodus, Liwa Al-Istialal (2/23) comments
on rumors that the period of the denationalization law will
be extended. It warns, "Any extension of the denationaliza-
tion law will serve the Jews' ends, will prolong unstability in
the country and will help them to shake the national economy
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003.Dd.....
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
-4-
Feb. 22, 23 and 24, 1951.
and to upset political and economic conditions. The people have
to be on the watch to foil any such attempt."
Liwa Al_Istialal (2/23) believes that the law for
settling the disputes over the Muntafik Liwa helps to preserve
feudalism. Instead of expropriating the lands from the Sanad
holders in order to give them to the "Sirkals", the government
should partition them into small lots and give them to the
tribesmen themselves. Instead of compensating the expropriated
Sanad Holders in kind, the government should do it in cash if
they already/own more than a maximum limit of lands.
DG of Oil Dr. Nadim Al-Pachachi will be leaving for
London very shortly. He is to have the case against the I.P.C.
instated. During his journey, he will visit Italy and West
Germany to promote their trade with Iraq. (Az-Zaman. 2/24)
Sixteen deputies have petitioned the government to amend
the electoral law so as to have direct elections instead of the
present two grades. (Az-Zaman. 2/24)
All Khalid, former DG of Police and author of the coup
d'etat which misfired last February, has petitioned the Council
of Ministers to consider his crime of a political nature.
(Az-Zaman. 2/24)
Sharif Hussain Nasir has been appointed Jordanian Minister
in Baghdad. He is to replace Omar Laki Al-Afuni. (Az-Zaman. 2/2L
The B.P.C. is searched for oil wells in the Kerbala area
near Wadi Teleyhat and Al-Akeydher. (Az-Zaman. 2/24)
Al-Awaat Al-Baghdadiya, of 'kaki Ahmed, has resumed
publication. This time, the editor is Mohammed Mahdi Aj-Jawahery.
Twa......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 5 - Feb. 22, 23 and 24, 1951.
Two days ago, Camille Chamoun, a Lebanese statesman,
arrived in Baghdad. He is at the Zia Hotel. (Al-Akhbar. 2/23)
On February 21, the Iraqi trade delegation, which is
visiting Pakistan and India, made its first official contact
with the Indian government. (Al-Umma. 2/23)
ThE B.P.C. workers have gone on a strike to have wages
increased. (Al-Nabaa. 2/23)
Abdul Rahman Kheder and Taha A1-Fayadh have returned
in Baghdad from the Moslem conference at Karachi. (As-Sijil.
2/23)
E N D
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of th
B A G H D A D P R E S S
25X1A
Embassy of the U.S.A. Tuesday, February 27, 1951.
Baghdad, Iraq.
FEBRUARY 26 MEETING OF rHE CHAMBER OF DEPUTIES.
The Chamber of Deputies convened yesterday morning.
It passed the Mortgage Bank Law and the amendment to the
Income-Tax Law. Twenty-nine deputies tabled a motion for a
direct electoral system.
During the debate on the income-tax amendment, the
Independnece Party deputies assailed Deputy-Prime Minister
2owfiq As-Suwaidi and accused him of having used his influence
to have a refund of taxes paid by the Eastern Tobacco Co.
and of having transferred Jamil As-Salain,. then DG of Income-
Tax, because he was opposed to the refund.
The Deputy-Prime Minister was absent. But, the attack
was opened by Siddiq Shanshal; he was followed by Ismail Ghanem
and Faiq As-Samerrai.
Ismail Ghanem gave the following figures of income-tax
receipts as an evidence of the efficiency of Jamil As-Salam,
whom the previous government transferred from the Income-Tax
Department to the Financial Inspectorate:
Fiscal Year Income-Tax Receipts in ID.
Before Salam 1947-48 1,750,000
During 1948-49 2,180,000
During 1949-50 2,375,000
After 1950-51 1,600,000 (Maximum
estimates)
Faiq As-Samerrai affirmed that the attorney of the Eastern
Tobacco Co. threatened the ex-DG of Income-Tax that he will be
transferred unless he subdues, and, indeed, he was transferred.
Abdul Karim Al-Uzri, who was the Minister of Finance in the
Suwaidi Cabinet, assured the Chamber that his transfer has been
effected for some administrative reasons.
Faiq As-Samerrai made a comparison between the share-
holders of the Eastern Tobacco Co. and the New Eastern Tobacco
Co. as follows:
EASTERN......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 2 - February 27, 1951
EASTERN TOBACCO COMPANY
Name of Shareholders
Number of Shares Amount in ID.
'i'owfiq As-Suwaidi
50
5,000
Nuri Fattah
89
$,900
Sulaiman Fattah
74
7,400
Emile Jebrail
112
11,200
Mc2r bhaul Ibrahim
65
6,500
Abdul Qadir Rashid
4
400
Khedouri Khedouri
2
200
Name of Shareholder
Capital Contribution in ID.
Mundher Nuri Fattah 1,000
Louwey Towfiq As-Suwaidi 2,000
Antoine Emile Jebrail 3,000
Najib As-Saigh (Attorney of the Co.) 2,000
After the refund decision became final, the New Eastern
Tobacco Co. was joined by Towfiq As-Suwaidi, bulaiman Fattah,
Emile Jabrail, Meer Ohaul Ibrahim, Abdul. Qadir Rashid, etc......
Faiq As-Samerrai gave the figures of the Eastern Tobacco
Company's profits, in order to demonstrate how they were under-
estimated whi'!e Towfiq As-Suwaidi was Prime Minister. Here are
the figures:
Fiscal Year
1942-43
1943-44
1944-45
1945-46
1946-47
1947-48
1948-49
1949-50
EDITORIAL COJUMENTS.
Amount in ID.
36,227.366
106,693.225
106,954.686
107,775.755
117,986.401
67,$05.506
30,206.750
5,550.764 (Liwa Al-
Istiqlal)
Commenting on the Istanbul conference of the U.S. envoys
in the Near East, Al-Awgat A1-Baghdadiya says its "main" purpose
is to "exploit the Middle East economically and militarily for
the war which the Western camp is earnestly striving for and is
resorting to every possible mL-ans to plunge into it the greatest
number of peoples."
The West.....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3 - February 27, 1951?
The viest is endeavoring to "break down the growing
popular resistance to it" in order to get fuller control
of the area. Indeed, such conferences "unveils" the fact
that the "Western imperialists" are preparing a new world war.
Pointing out that the Arab states have not been consulted
in the matters discussed at the conference, although they are
related to the area, the paper says, "The fact, that the
Imperialists overlook the will of the Arab peoples because of
the present Arab governments, is a strong evidence of these
governments' neglect of the matters pertaining to their
people."
Commenting on a France-Presse report that at the
Istanbul conference the American Ambassador in Riyadh informed
them of King Ibn Saud's opposition to the Fertile Crescent Plan,
Al-Yagdha believes that the correspondent must be either "a
Jew or pro-Jew", because the matter has been put aside follow-
ing the proposal of Syrian Premier Qudsi for Arab federation
to the Arab League. Indeed, any bilateral uniop is meant to
be but a step forward to the overall unity of the Arab world.
Speaking of the "tyrannic French imperialism" in
Morrocco, Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi says that France believes its
tyrannic rule of Morrocco is "eternal" and it can kill the
spirit of liberation and independence of the Morroccans. The
French have "invented a new theme to defame the nationalist
movement in illorocco; they are accusing the Sultan and his
supporters of Communism."
Voicing support to the recent parliamentary motion
for a direct electoral system, Sada Al-Ahali says that the
proposal represents "a sound trend" for amending the electoral
law. The matter has become a "popular demand".
The paper concludes, "The direct electoral system,
which is the right way to any really fair elections, is one of
the main pillars for building democracy in Iraq. To adopt it
will be an important factor to enable the electors to exerciZe
their right properly and will be a guarantee that their will
will be respected. Moreover, it w ill make more difficult for
the government to meddle with elections."
SHORT......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
-4-
February 27, 1951.
;;.H ORT NEVIS.
The Syrian trade delegation will be leaving Iran next
Thursday upon concluding his talks with the Iragigovernment
about an economic agreement. (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi)
Yahya Qassim, editor of Ash-Shaab, left for Basra
where he is to stay three days. Ash- haab)
Najib Ar-Rawi, Iraq Minister in Cairo, is due in
Baghdad next Thursday, The reason of his visit to Baghdad is
unknown. (Al-Nabaa)
Premier Nuri As-Said will return in Baghdad next
Thursday. He is going to Egypt early next month, where he
will stay a week. However, he will not go to London, as
rumored. (Al-Hawadith)
E N D.
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R0077001200R_~ 1A
D A I L Y RTE-V-I E W
of th e
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. Sunday, February 25, 1951
Baghdad, Iraq. Monday, February 26, 1951
PREMIER'S CRUISE IN PERSIAN GULF.
After inaugurating the Basra Branch of the Constitutional
Union Party, Premier Nuri As-Said has gone on a cruise in the
Persian Gulf on board of the "Ahmadi" Yacht, renamed "Queen
Aliya" . He is attended by Dr. iJhia Jaffar, iviinister of Works
and Communications and by Dr. Drew, his private physician.
As for Education Minister Khalil Kanna and Justice
Minister Hassan Sami Tatar, they have returned in Baghdad with
the other members of the Constitutional Union Party who attended
the inauguration of the Basra Branch. (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi.
2/26)
30 DEPUTIES DEMAND FOR ONE-STAGE ELECTIONS.
In pursuit of genuine representation of the people",
30 deputies are to table a motion in parliament asking for
one-stage elections. They believe that the present electoral
law, although a "step forward" in comparison to the previous
one, "should be abolished and replaced by a new one based on
direct elections."
Ten reasons are put forth; and they are as follows:
1) Such a system simplifies elections, shortens their
period, and is easier for the interested parties.
2) It is more in accordance with the Constitution
which provides for everyone the right to vote, as the present
law compels primary electors to waive their right in favor of
secondary electors who may act as it pleases them.
3) Direct elections allow more genuine representation
of the people.
4) They establish a closer relationship between the
deputy and his electors.
5) They compel deputies to take more care of their
electors.
6)...
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 2 - February 25 and 26, 1951
6) They make it more difficult for the Government to
meddle with them as it is not easy to influence thousands of
electors.
7) They help to bring home to electors the meaning of
elections because the electors will have to make their choice
among few candidates instead of the long list of secondary
electors.
$) They promote a genuine parties system, as parties will
have to appeal to the people themselves.
9) They appeal to the public more because the public
is directly interested in them.
10) It is the system adopted by all governments seeking
to promote democratic life.
In the end, they conceded that some obstacles will have
to be overcome, but the benefits are "incommensurate", foremost
promoting a "genuine parliamentary life", which is the "basis
of any real reform."
The deputies to sign the motion are:
Edward Georgie, Basra
Ismail Ghanem, Baghdad
Jaffar Al-Qazwini, Hilla
Jaffar Al-I'M:ugotar, Diwaniya
Jamal Al-Niufti, Mosul
Hanna Khayyat, Mosul
Dhiban Al-Ghabban, Baghdad
Rafiq As-Sayid Isa, Muntafik
Salem Jaffar, Basra
Sami Shawkat, Kut
Saad Omar, Kerbala
Salman Al-Ibrahim, Basra
Saleh Bahr El-Oloum, Kerbala
Sabih Mumtaz, Baghdad
Abdul Razzaq Al-Uzri, Diwaniya
Abdul Samad Al-Bechari, Basra
Abdul Latif Jaffar, Basra
Abdul Karim Al-Uzri, iviuntafik
Abdul Hadi Al-Bechari, Basra
Obeid Al-Haj Khalaf, Kut
Izz,at Murad Al-Shaikh, Baghdad
Izzidin Al-Naqib, Diyala
All Kadhem Abul Temman, Baghdad
Ghazi El-Elli, Baghdad
Faiq As-Samerrai, Baghdad
Qassim Al-Niufti Mosul
Mohammed Jewad Jaffar, Baghdad
Mohammed Jewad Haidar, Muntafik
$ed Sh sia1 1'e'1os15
Approved
Z 0
Od~i RP~I ~o q26 )
,Oa PUT a ignu
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3 -
February 25 and 26, 1951.
anLLH J ER DENOUNCES SECT' RIANISM.
Pointing out that the electoral campaign in Lebanon is
based on sectarianism, Ash-Shaab (2/26) says that on this occa-
sion Saleh Jabr was asked for his opinion about sectarianism.
Senator Saleh Jabr stated, "It is very grave to base
politics on sectarianism or to use it as a political means.
Sectarianism by itself is reactionary and is exploited by
reactionaries, opportunists and the enemies of progress in
order to attain their ends in backward societies, where
ignorance prevails. It tears the country into helpless pieces...
"Sectarianism is a subversive movement to be fought by
all means and to be eliminated. Any sectarianists should be
fought without respite...... Reformists of any sect, race,
party or group should promote Iraqi unity and fraternity among
all Iraqis......"
After quoting the Constitution and the Koran, Senator
oaleh Jabr said, "Iraqis, whether Arab or Kurd, and Moslem or
non-Moslem, should behave as one people and one country, united
in their same goal of making the country progress and of raising
the living standard of all.
"If, nevertheless, groups have to be established, they
should be based on social, economic and political principles
and by means of political parties comprising the persons who
believe in the same principles and in the same political
methods for achieving them." (Ash-Shaab. 2/26)
THE JEWISH EXODUS.
Whether the period for the denationalization law of the
Jews will be extended or not is not yet known. More than one
government official has told Az-Zaman that the matter has not
yet been discussed by the Council of Ministers.
However, the date limit for accepting applications has
been set for February 25 by order of the Police Director of
Travels. The applications signed in Baghdad only amount to
about 35,000, noting that a whole family has one application
form. That is why, no accurate estimates may be given about
the number of applicants. But, as the date limit is nearing,
their number is increasing; and the officials in charge are
forced to work late during the night.
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 4 -
February 25 and 26, 1951,
The delayed departure of denationalized Jews is due to
the fact that the applications including persons born between
1912 and 1932 were put aside; thus, the other members of the
family were held up. (Az-Zaman. 2/26)
According to a Beirut message of the ANA, the Arab Higher
Committee for Palestine has appealed to all the Arab states to
stop the emigration of Jews to Israel. It expresses the fear
that Israel will enlist them in its army and may use their
knowledge of the Arabic language and of the Arab customs to
harm the Arab states. (Liwa Al-Istiqlal. 2/25)
Pointing out that almost 100,000 Jews have applied for
emigration and that two thirds of them, although denationalized,
are still here, Liwa Al-Istiglal (2/25) urges the government to
place them in concentration camps so that they will not commit
any act of sabotage. Moreover, it asks that their money be
freezed. It believes that the Jews in Iraq are acting on direct-
ives from Israel.
ISLAMIC CONFERENCE.
Believing that the Arabs' glory has dwindled because
they were diverted from Islam, Ali Mahmud Shaikh Ali, writing
in Az-Zaman about the Moslem conference of Karachi, deplores
that the Karachi conference led to "tragi-comedic" decisions,
foremost to consider any aggression against any Moslem state
as being against the whole Islamic world. The conference, says
the writer, has missed the point that the Islamic is being the
object of continual aggression and outrage and that the authors
thereof are their very allies. Indeed, Islam does neither
approve of Communism nor of any serfdom. The conference should
warn the authors of past and future acts of aggression.
Speaking of the Karachi conference, Taha A1-Fayadh, who
attended it, blames the Iraqi conference for having failed to
send a governmental delegation or to have instructed its
Charge d'Affaires to attend the conference as the other Moslem
states did.
He is gratified that the Moslem delegates concurred in
their views. All- he says, complained of the fact that Islamic
precepts are not fully followed, It is gratified by the deci-
sion of the conference to consider any aggression against any
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700129 Oj3,Ai is ......
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 5 - February 25 and 26, 1951.
IG1 rnic country as against all of them. Thus, he says, the
Islamic countries' security is guaranteed.
Pointing to the fact that a committee, with headquarters
in Pakistan, has charge of seeing that the conference's deci-
sions are carried out, the writer concludes that it is an
evidence that the decisions will not be left "ink on paper's.
In the end, he hails the conference as "an international
Islamic organization." (As-Sijil. 2/25 and 2/26)
MOROCCO.
Commenting on an ANA report about the possibility
of deporting the Moroccan sultan if he persists in his opposi-
tion to France, Al-Alam Al-Arabi says that it is funny that
Sharq Al-Adna, which broadcast the news item, tries to describe
French Imperialism as a factor of democracy and justice.
What is taking place in Morocco is part of the overall
plan to build up the so-called free world in subjugated countries.
Indeed, the Pleven Government has sold Morocco to the American
imperialism against million of dollars. What France is doing
in North Africa has been decided in Washington and approved by
London.
What is still more amazing is the silence kept by the
Arab League. It connotes a tacit approval and that the Arabs
have no more honor.
Liwa Al-Istiglal (2/26) believes that the French move in
Morocco is meant to strengthen French control and France has
seized the opportunity that the U.S. is asking for air bases
there. France is trying to persuade that the defense against
Communism will be jeopardized if Uommunism acts through the
Moroccan Independence Party. But, the Moroccan Independence
Party, as any other Arab nationalist party, cannot be Communist,
but fights imperialism, and is, in fact, for liberation.
The iirab League has sufficed itself with the memorandum
to the U. S. But, this is not enough ; the Arab states ought to
act; they should approach the U.S., which is immediately responsi-
ble for the situation, and they should adopt the necessary
measures to prevent the recurrence of such an aggression.
SHORT......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
February 25 and 26, 1951.
A1-Hawadith (2/26) reports:
Iraq was invited to the Labor conference to be held in
Tehran on March 10. But, the Arab League Political Committee
decided that the Arab states should participate in the conference
while completely ignoring the presence of the Israeli delegates.
Today, we have learned that the government has been
notified by the ILO that the conference has been postponed sine
die. It is understood that the matter has been left up to the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It will have to decide whether
to attend the conference or not.
The 4orld Bank mission arrived in Baghdad on Sunday.
(Sada A1-Ahali. 2/26)
The Syro-Iraqi trade talks ma be said to have reached
their final stage. (Az-Zaman. 2/26)y
Camille Shamoun, of Lebanon, left Baghdad after a short
visit. (Az-Zaman. 2/26)
This Plonda, the Chamber of Deputies is convening.
(Ash-Shaab. 2/26)
This coming Tuesday, the Senate is convening. (Al-Nabaa.
2/25)
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIAO-RDP83-00415R007700120003
DAILY REVIEW
off' the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. February 28, 1951.
Baghdad, Iraq.
25X1A
PREMIER NURI AS-SAID'S CRUISE.
Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi reports that Premier Nuri As-Said
began his cruise in the Persian Gulf on Monday, February 26,
and it is "to last more than a week."
FEBRUARY 27 MEETING OF THE SENATE.
The Senate convened yesterday morning. It was presided
by Second Vice-President Hibatulla Mufti. It passed the follow-
ing laws:
1) Ordinance No. 2 of 1950 for Exemption of Income-Tax;
2) Ordinance No. 3 of 1950 amending the Farm Machinery
and Implements Law No. 32 of 1949;
3) Ordinance No. 4 for Addition of Funds to the 1950
Budget;
4) Law Establishing a Provident Fund for Municipalities.
(Ash-ohaab)
GENERAL SUPPORT VOICED FOR DIRECT ELECTORAL SYSTEM.
Ash-Shaab hails the 30 deputies' parliamentary motion
for direct elections as "more than a good step" which will have
the support of all those aware of the need for reforms. How-
ever, the paper would like the deputies to secure the women's
right to vote as a preliminary step towards granting them the
right of being elected to parliament.
Speaking of the parliamentary motion, Al-Umma clamors,
"During the parliamentary life in Iraq, Iraqis has not received
any action or proposal of parliament with so much enthusiasm
and support."
Criticizing...
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
2 - February 28, 1951.
Cr:ri':,icizing the present electoral system, the paper adds,
"The source of public satisfaction is due to the present parlia-
mentary life and to the present electoral system, if ever it
deserves to be called so. The present system does not fit with
a genuine democratic system and the spirit of the Constitution."
The paper concludes, "In the end, we have to point to
one fact which may be forgotten by the authorities. It is that
the concept of direct elections will inevitably be carried out,
despite the obstacles and the handicaps it may encounter. In-
deed, this conept will be realized sooner or later."
Pointing to the "unanimous support" to the 30 deputies'
motion, Al-Nabaa does "neither see it strange nor amazing". The
people want the "distorted democracy imposed upon them" to be
changed. Moreover, this is an opportunity for the party in
power to prove its sincere desire for "drastic reform." Indeed,
genuine parliamentary life is a sine qua non condition for
such a reform.
Al..-Yagdha says that the ten reasons set forth by the 30
deputies are unquestionable. Indeed, we cannot convince
ourselves that elections allow the people to express their
will as we are "amidst the farce being staged."
MISCELLANEOUS EDITORIALS.
Stressing the popular opposition to the French rule in
Morocco under the leadership of the Sultan and the Independence
Party, Sada Al-Ahali says that the Moroccans want to live an
honorable and free life. They are asking for their natural
right to self-determination and for getting rid of the air
bases network set up by the U.S. in agreement with France."
Answering Ali Mahmud Shaikh Ali's criticism that
religions are the cause of decadence on the occasion of the
Karachi conference, Taha Al-Fayadh, writing in As-Siiil, says
that the decadence of the Islamic world is not due to Islam
but the politicians who have compromised with the Imperialists.
The Arabs' glory is due to Islam.
SHORT......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
February 28, 1951.
SHORT NEWS.
The following changes have been ordered in the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs:
Ruf ail Butti is transferred to Cairo as Press Counselor;
Ahmed Gailani, from the Ministry to London as Attache;
Faisal Damaluji, First Attache in London, to the Ministry;
Safaa Abdul Wahab, Attache in Brussels, to Amman;
Khalil Ad-Daghistani, from the Ministry to Rome;
Kam al Jawad, from Rome to Brussels as Attache;
Jihad As-Soz, from Rome to Brussels as Attache. (Az-Zaman)
Following the incidents in Morocco, the Iraq Government
has instructed its Minister in Paris to "inform" the French
government that in its capacity as member of the Arab League
Iraq "deems that such a pressure (on the Sultan) does not fit
with the nationalist policy of supporting the other Arab states."
(Az-Zaman)
The B.P.C. workers are still on strike. The Minister of
Social Affairs has delegated the DG of Labor, Abdul Razzaq
Ibrahim, and Labor Expert Mr. Hull to investigate the causes
of the strike. (Az-Zaman).
Ahmed Ar-Rawi is leaving tomorrow for Amman to take up
his post. (Ash-Shaab).
Hearings of the case of Ghadban As-Saad began. The
magistrate of the Baghdad Penal Code has ordered his detention.
He is a former army officer and is being tried on a charge of
promoting Communism for his writing the confiscated book, "Korea
in the Parade of Freedom." (Al-Alam A1-Arabi)
E N D
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
25X1A
:,raua:;sy of the U.S.A. Friday, February 9, 1951
Baghdad, Iraq. Saturday, February 10, 1951
FEBRUARY 8 MEETING OF THE CHAMBER OF DEPUTIES.
On Thursday, February 8, the Chamber of Deputies convened.
Nine new questions were put to the government; Arkan Al-Abadi is
inquiring about the Arab League session, Abdul Kerim Kanna about
the Government's stand on the Qudsi plan, and Ahmed Hamed Al-
Naqib about the location of the oil refinery.
The Prime Minister and the Deputy-Prime Minister were
absent. The meeting was attended by the Ministers of Interior,
of Works and Communications, of Finance, of Social Affairs, of
Justice and of Economics.
The Royal Iradas appointing Towfiq As-Suwaidi to the
Deputy-Premiership and Om-r Nadhmi to the Interior were read out
to advise the Chamber o" the cabinet change. Independence Party
Leader Mohammed Mahdi Kubba commented on the appointment of Suwaidi
saying, "I do say that the root of the evil is the political
extemporaneousness in forming, reshuffling or patching the cabi-
net ...... It is mostly felt, and it is an inevitable consequence,
in the manner cabinets are formed out of members who differ in
their political principles and line and who have no man-to-man
understanding......" He recalled that Suwaidi resigned from the
Premiership because he ditfered with the "Major Party" (Constitu-
tional Union tarty) in parliament.
Then, the Chamber was advised of the receipt of a draft
law for setting a skins association, which was forwarded to the
Committee of Economic Affairs.
Answering Siddiq Shanshal's question about the Tobacco
Monopoly, Economics Minister Abdul Magid Mahmud pointed that the
present system has benefited both the tobacco growers and the
government. He announced that a new law is under preparation for
a full monopolistic system.
The Chamber, then, switched to the Ordinance of Farm
Machinery and Implements. Matta Akrawi, Qassim Al-Mufti, and
Abdul Kerim Kanna expressed their displeasure from the fact that
the government has resorted to an ordinance; Kanna suggested t}?'.t
the Chamber turns it down to force the government to act with1d
its powers only.
The......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 2 - February 9 and 10, 1951
~' ...rr t~ ~.plair,(.:d that the government
had prepared a draft law for submission to parliament, but as it
went into recess the government has been forced to resort to an
or'l`.nan' e to enable a:7,-.nits to import farm machinery and equipments.
However, no vote was taken on the ordinance for lack of
quorum; and the Chamber adjourned until Monday, February 12.
Az-Zaman. 2/9)
KING AND REGENT LEAVING ALEXANDIRA TODAY.
In their itinerary to London, King Faisal, Regent Abdul
Ilah, and the Royal Party arrived in Beirut on February 7, They
boarded the Italian snip, 7?Esper-ia" , and sailed to Egypt ; they
arrived in Alexandria un February 9 and will be leaving it
on Saturday (today).. (Az-Zaman, 2/9 and 10)
STUDENT DELEGATIO''TS' VISITS.
Iraqi college ctuden;,s have seized the opportunity of
the mid-year vacation for visiti.zg neighboring countries, such
as Egypt, Lebanon, yric nd Iran. On the other hand, Turkish
students of the Ur.iversieies of Ankara arid Istanbul and Syrian
students of the Damascus University have come to Baghdad. (Ed.)
A]-Tt?tih2d Ad_Dasturi (2/9), commenting on this exchange of
visits, 1~ oeas es the imp ;ante of inter-people undersi-.Pnding; in
modern tires. This understanding should begin with ne_Lb oorir.g
countries with whom we have common features and historicaities.
The student delegations' visits are a preliminary step to it,
because it helps both sides to know each other. In the end, the
paper stresses the facilities provided by the Ministry of Educa-
tion to work out these trips.
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Commenting on General Robertson's visit to the Arab
capitals, Sada Al-.Ahali (2/9) sees in it an "indication that the
British plans for binding the Arab states to the west camp) hav
entered a practical phase, or rather the preliminary political
talks have been concluded and they are being implemented now,"
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3 -
February 9 and 10, 1951.
r et;ip iAsizii,g gnat ",Britain, the U.S. , and France are
overlooking the desires of the peoples of the Arab states for
being spared the war catastrophes, as long as they con, _c:)7. tree
r ' ' 1 3s govern _r _ tr;.-m" , the paper says, "The Arab peoples
c: r,si~~r General Rob-rtson's visit as connected with the dis-
quietening and serious developments pertaining to the security of
their countries and meant to plunge them into the volcan') J ,he
c:,-^ir war despite their will. They censure the weak stand of
tr~e:~r politicians towards Britain and the U.S. They deem that
this stand is inconsistent with the desired neutrality necessary
to their security against the war scourges and which has become
a unanimously popular demand, because it is the only path to safety
amidst the imminent menaces threatening their countries. The
Ara': countries are in strong need for a popular movement for
neutrality to resist these plans."
Commenting on the ex^hange of notes concerning the four-
power conference, Sa.dawAJ-?Ahali (2/9) says, "While the latest
Soviet note paves the ay- to a four-power conference likely to
alleviate the _nternatic,n.al tension, the U. S. Secretary of State
has -riticizod. it an,-,, accused the Soviet Union of restricting the
talks, This r'e.ans that the conference question will remain the
ob; cct of gi re_arid?-,rake, -o aoubt, the U.S. wants to gain time
for completing tht; in.tetr-tion of Germany into the North Atlantic
group and of German units into the European army. Then the
cony' erence will be of no use, and this will be a drawback for the
cause of world peace."
Ridha. Ash-Shihibi, writing in Az-Z, r (,./10)
about t,i:~Arab League communique, believes that the Arab statree
should have adopted a more "explicit" attitude regarding the East-
West conflict.
He sees in it a confession that the big powers are int :-.,, en
in ? in the Arab states' domestic affairs; and, therefore, he
suggests that the League should strive for enhancing their
independence.
SHORT NEWS.
0-i Thursday, Finance Minister Abdul Vuahab Merjan, 'Kati c r.__
Bank Governor Abdul Ilah Hafidh, and his assistant, Dr? SaJ :;h
Haidar, conferred with Mr, Gamble, the British Commercial; Att.chc.,
about the sterling balances. Mr. uiaight, representative of tic
British Treasury, is at present in Tehran and is expected hers
on Monday. (Az-Zaman. 2/10)
General....,
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 4 -
February 9 and 10, 1951.
_ :~ ay .,? i na- !;ii s ::xpected today from Cairo.
(Sada Al-Ahali. 2/9)
Minister without Por.tlolio Mohammed Hassan Kubba has
written to the authorities concerned that he gives up th-,, import
lice: ices granted to hiri. (Al-Umma. 2/9)
The Pakistan Legation announces that the Iraqi trade
delegation, led by Ali l4umtaz, has arrived in Karachi for trade
talks. (Al-?Umma. 2/9)
Camille Shamoii:i, of Lebanon, is expected in Baghdad.
(Al-Alam Al-Arabi, 2/9)
Ex-Chief Z t .~f Hassair_ Tawzi has told the 1,P correspondent
that lraa could have 50 OOU men i.inder arms, if provided with he
necessary eq. ,A1-Akhb.~r. 2/9)
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
25X1A
Embassy of the U.S.A. Sunday, February 11, 1951
Baghdad, Iraq. Monday, February 12, 1951
REGENT AND KING LEAVE ALEXANDRIA. REGENT TO STAY ONE MONTH
IN ENGLAND.
On Saturday, February 10, King Faisal and Regent Abdul
Ilah left Alexandria on board of the "Esperia".
During a two-hour audience, AL Secretary-General Abdul
Rahman Azzam told the Regent about his consultations in the U.S.
and Italy. (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi. 2/12)
King Faisal stated in Alexandria that his trip is "very
hard" for him as it is the first time he is leaving his country
without his mother. He is feeling her absence everywhere, but
"his only consolation is the great affection which my people
gave me to substitute my mother's."
The Regent stated that he will remain beside the King
in England a month. Speaking of reforms, the Regent said that
Iraq is l:-nding particular attention to strengthening and
equipping its army. (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi. 2/11)
END OF STATE OF WAR WITH GERMANY.
Az-Zaman (2/12) reports, "We reported in a previous issue
that the Council of Ministers decided to end the state of war
with Germany proclaimed since 1940. We add now that this will
be effected by a Royal Irada."
ECONOMICS MINISTER ABDUL MAJID MAHMUD BECOMES DEPUTY.
In the by-election to fill the vacancy for the electoral
district of Afeq (Diwaniya Liwa) arising from the death of
Sa'dun Ar-Resen, tribal chieftain of. Al-Lekra', Economics Minister
Abdul Majid Mahmud has won the seat uncontested following the
withdrawl of Sheikh Resen Al-Fahad, the new chief of A1-Lekra'..
(Al-Nab aApp j or Release 2002/1/,8*CIA-RDP83-00415R0077001 Z B O&IO..... .
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
-3-
February 11 and 12; 1951.
THE PROPHET'S SEPULCHER.
Prompted by Egyptian Premier Nahas Pasha's appeal over
the Cairo radio to all Moslems to contribute to the repairs of
the mosque where the Prophet's sepulcher lies in Medina as 12 of
its 237 columns are threatening to fall, Al-Yaadha (2/11) thanks
Egypt for drawing the Islamic people's attention to the fact
and urges the formation of committees for raising the needed funds.
"No Moslem, whether Arab or not, and no Arab, whether
Moslem or not," asserts Liwa Al-Istiolal (2/12) "have heard of
the Saudi government's neglectness of the Prophet's sepulcher
without anger and without wishing to have a share in its
maintenance .. , ... It seems that the Saudi government prefers to
buiic un huge castles for its Emirs, Ministers, and followers
rather than to discharge its trusteeship of the sepulcher of the
Prophet, the leader of all the Arabs."
Anyhow, concludes the paper, we have to contribute to the
repairs for alTerting the danger threatening the Prophet's
sep-,:lcher.
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Ash-Shaab (2/11) sees signs of activities in the Middle
East. T_hc ''nglo-Egyptian treaty negotiations are to be resumed.
General Robertson is touring Arab capitals.
The view to form a military force out of the Arab states
for fulfilling some defensive tasks in the area is gaining propo-
nents in the U.S. and Britain. Considered in the light of facts,
the Arab League communique shows the Arab governments' inclina-
tion to accept defensive duties.
Speaking of the weakness of the Middle East in reference
to an article published in the Daily Telegraph, AI-Akhbar
(2/11) holds the U.S. and Britain responsible for it because
they have denied the Arab states arms to which they are entitled
under the treaty provisions.
Writing in Al-Hawadith (2/12), Salman Shaikh Daud is blast-
ing the British policy towards the Arabs. He says that "an
important secret has been unveiled"; weizmann, in his memoirs,
has disclosed that the mandate imposed on the Arab states was to
enable Zionism t in a foothold in Palestine. Salman concludes
Approved ForRelease 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R0077001200 0
rnat......
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 4 -
February 11 and 12, 1951.
that we should not believe what the British pretended that
Palestine was given to the Jews under American pressure. The
whole case is one of "conspiracy between the British and the
Zionists since the Balfour Declaration."
The Independence Party, says Liwa A1-Istialal (2/11),
stated its opinion about the recent cabinet reshuffle, its
spokesman was its leader, Mohammed Mahdi Kubba, at the Chamber
of Deputies last Thursday.. The governme nt did not reply feeling
that he is right..
Then the paper compares the cabinet posts to a chess board
without telling who is the player, saying, "There are chess pawns
placed now and then on the board, or rather on the political
stage; afterwards, they are removed to a store where they are kept
available for any role to be played."
Describing the people's feeling towards this game, it
says, "The people is watching; but he is annoyed by its repeti-
tion. It is resenting it and expresses this sentiment whenever
the opportunity avails itself."
As for the "chess pawns", the paper says, "The members of
the Ruling Class are content with their lot. They consent to be
brought in and removed from the cabinet with no reason they know
except that their role is over. They cannot complain, lest they
may be excommunicated and lose their influence congenital to
ministerial offices and the consequent power to satisfy personal
desires......"
This state of affairs, asserts the paper, is "widening day
after day the immense gap" between the Ruling Class and the
People.. Indeed, points out the paper, the Ruling Class' mentali-
ty is "deteriorating"; under the Mandate, some of them were
opposing the Imperialistic Policy while in power; but, nowadays
they are paving the way for its achieving its goals. As the
popular consciousness has increased in the postwar years, the
mentality of the Ruling Class is to be "blamed"; it is "!so
magically attracted by cabinet posts that they have become ends
by themselves instead of remaining the means for reform and
public service."
As agricultural resourses are considered as an important
part of our national wealth, says Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi (2/12),
the government is giving particular attention to the agricultural
renaissance. The first step in this direction is the mechaniza-
tion of the production means. As Iraq is short of technical
hands, the government has appealed to international organizations
iab 2M~18 11A- P O6G RE0120003 0 dtwoThus
and to ~ dctie # dr4 eaYA
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
February 11 and 12, 1951.
two agreements have been concluded last month, one with the
American "CARE" organization and the other with the FAO.
Thus, Iraq, with this technical aid, will be able to
launch projects of land reclamation and to expand the area
under cultivation.
SHORT NE0.
Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi (2/12) announces that the Basra
Branch of the Constitutional Union Party will be inaugurated
on February 23.
The Uouncil of Ministers has approved a list for 58
denationalized Jews, including 32 government officials. (Az-
Zaman. 2/12)
Minister-designate to Amman Ahmed Ar-Rawi has been
granted 20-day leave. (:tz-Zaman. 2/12).
The Chamber of Deputies is meeting this morning.
(Ash-Shaab. 2/12)
E N D
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
25X1A
Embassy of the U.S.A. Tuesday, February 13, 1951
Baghdad, Iraq.
FEBRUARY 12 MEETING OF THE CHAMBER OF DEPUTIES.
Yesterday, the Chamber of Deputies convened and was
unable to do much work due to absenteeism. The Vice-President,
who was in the chair, announced the receipt of new questions,
such as the one of Siddiq Shanshal about the possibility for
cabinet members to have as the same time their business, and
of new draft laws. The draft laws are: 1) the teachers'
service bill, 2) the ratification of the agreement concluded
with CARE, and 3) the law for the settlement of the land
disputes in the Niuntafik Liwa.
However. the Chamber approved the Ordinance amending the
Farm Machinery and Implements Law. The vote was 62 for and 15
against, The negative votes were cast by Abdul Samad Bechari,
Abdul Kerim Kanna, Abdul Va,id Al-Qassab, Ali Abut Timman, Faiq
As-Samerfai, Qassim Al-Mufti, Siddiq Sharshal, Mohammed Mahdi
Kubba, Ismail Ghanem, Towfiq Al-Mukhtar. Husamiddin Jum'a,
Razzouo Shammas, Salman Al-Ibrahim, Ahmed Al-Naqib, and Mohammed
Moshhen Al-Hardan.
The next item on the agenda was the Ordinance for the
Export Tax on Dates. The opposition set forth three arguments.
Siddiq Shanshal branded it as "unconstitutional". Ahmed Al-
Naqib, Salman Al-Ibrahim and Edward Georgie stressed that in
order to encourage exports such a tax should be lifted. Ahmed
Al-Nagib and Salman Al-Ibrahim want Andrew Weir to pay the tax.
The answer to the three-point criticism came from Dhia
Jaffar, the Minister of Works and Communications. He contended
the unconstitutionality of the ordinance on the ground that the
export tax was already enacted by Parliament when the Customs
Tariff was amended. Moreover, Andrew Weir refused to pay the
tax and to get delivery of dates with the intention of revoking
the contract. Thus, the Ordinance was made necessary.
When the Ordinance was put to vote, the quorum was missing.
The Chamber adjourned until Thursday, February 15. (Az-Zaman)
THE LAW.....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 2 - February 13, 1951?
rHE LAW FOR THE MUNTAFIK LANDS.
The Chamber of Deputies has just announced to have
received a draft law for the settlement of the land disputes
in the Muntafik Liwa. This law, says the explanatory memorandum
attached thereto, has been necessitated by the long-standing
land disputes dating since the Ottoman regime and left outstande
ing by the law of 1929.
The problem has arisen from the fact that the Tapu Sanads
for the grant in Tapu of Miri lands are held by persons other
than the occupants who are cultivating them and who have, thus,
acquired some rights on the lands in accordance with tribal
practice and custom.
The solution of the problem, as outlined by the draft
law, is co compensate in cash or kind the Sanad holders as to
be decided by the C.;uncil of Ministers in every case and to
grant the Miri lands in Lazma to the occupants as it is unwise
to make tribesmen emigrate from lands where they are settled.
(Az- Zaman )
PRLM MINIS TER IS SICK.
Premier Nuri As-Said is sick. He is having a high blood
pressui'e, He hasbeen advised to stay at home for few days. Thus,
he apologizes for cancelling all appointments. (Az-Zaman)
CHANGES !N rHE ADMINISTRATION.
Siddiq Rassoul Al-Qaderi, Qaimaqam of Rowanduz, has been
made Administrative Inspector.
Salman Abdul Wahab A1-Khattab, Mudir Nahiya of Abu Seida,
has been made Qaimaqam of Mendeli.
Oniran Miran Qader, alternate magistrate in Erbil, has
been appoi.uted Qaimaqam of Zibar.
Bagir Ad-Dujaili has been transferred from Mendeli to
Mahmudiyo as Qaimaqam. Akram Ahmed from Mahmudiya to Suweira
as Qai:nacam. Khalil Taher Ar-Radhi from Suweira to Hai as
Qaimaa, m_. Mustafa Asem Ismail from the Kirkuk Qadha to Hincliya,
as Qaimagam. Jamal Rifaat from Hindiya to Sulaimaniya Qadha, as
Qaimagam. (Az-Zaman)
APPEAL......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3 -
February 13, 1951.
APPEAL TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE REPAIRS OF THE MECCA MOSQUE.
The following appeal has been launched by Asem Al-Gailani,
Chief Notable of Baghdad:
"Moslems, in their native homelands and in their countries
of emigration, have been alarmed by recent reports that the
pillars of the Mosque of the Apostle of God (may God bless and
preserve him) threaten to fall.
"We exalt H.M. King Faruk for his Royal patronage of the
special Egyptian committee which H.E. Mustafa Nahas Pasha has
proposed to form to raise funds for consolidating the pillars of
the dearest Kiblah in the Islamic world. We extol the great
Egyptian Government for opening a credit of 10,000 pounds for
covering the expenses of the preliminary repairs.
"We urge all Moslems to raise contributions for this
noble enterprise dictated by Islamic dignity in order to preserve
the most sacred symbol of Islam throughout the ages.
"We ought to remind Moslems of the holy versus that
"Mosques are for God" and "0 sons of Adam, adorn every mosque".
Is it necessary to Elaborai;e on the duty of preserving the
preeminent temple of God? (Az-Zaman)
WORLD ISLAMIC CONFERENCE.
Speaking of Islam on the occasion of the Islamic conference
being bend -.t Karachi, Al-Ittihad Ad--Dasturi underscores that
Islam is ''a political, social and economic doctrine of the first
class". that it is "the religion of unity and of complete brother-
hood, and is a major force appealing for peace, love, freedom
and equality", that "for many centuries it was the vanguard of
civilization", and that it "remained strong despite the Moslems'
weakness and preserved their language, traditions and beliefs."
Switching to the conference itself, the paper says,
~~Intern,~t. tonal conditions are on the side of the blessed move-
ment repre3(;nted by the Islamic conference at Karachi. The
delegates have to act earnestly and staunchly for inter-Moslem
understanding and to lay down adequate plans for their coopera-
tion an.r, for coordinating their struggle. They will succeed if
they di:~T:1a,r good will." The paper, then, quotes one of the
delegates saying that Moslems should unite to show the world that
the proper remedy for the present ills is Islam, and it is
neither Communism nor Capitalism.
SHORT......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
February 131 1951.
SHORT NEWS.
Commenting on the Qudsi Plan, Hussain Jamil finds it
T"a very good hope" but "unrealistic". (Az-Zaman)
The Ministry of Works and Communications has forwarded to
the Council of Ministers the bilateral Egyptian-Iraqi civil air
agreement prior to its signing by both parties. (Az-Zaman)
The Ministry of Interior has permitted to the "Jemiyat
Al-Khadarnat Ad-Diniya Wal Ijtimayia" (Society of the Social and
Reli>;i~,as Services) to raise the sum of ID. 1, 00 for establishing
a religious institute in Baghdad, (Al-Hawadith)
The members of the preparations committee of the
conference of the Arab chambers of commerce have arrived in
Bay,'-d id. They are All Shukri Khamis Beg, President of the
Ale-,'adria Chamber, Emir iUalek Shehab, 'echnical Adviser of
the Beirut Chamber and Seer'~tary of the Preparations Committee,
and Nam; ib Beg Megla, Fresiaent of the Tripoli Chambers.
(Ash-Shaab)
E N D
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
25X1A
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. February 14,1951.
Baghdad, Iraq.
KING AND REGENT ARRIVE IN NAFOLI AND PROCEED TO GENOA.
A Napoli message says that King Faisal and Regent Abdul
Ilah arrived there on board of the "EsFeria" and proceeded to
Genoa. (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi)
4.
LEBANESE CABINET RESIGNS.
After a meeting of the Council of Ministers, Lebanese
Premier Riad Al-Solh went to the president to tender his resigna-
tion. The caretaker government, to supervize the new elections,
will be formed by Hussain Al-Uwaini. (Liwa Al-Istiglal)
DENATIONALIZATION OF JEWS.
It has been advertized on the door of the Meer Tuweig
Synagogue that applications for denationalization will not be
accepted after February 20.
As in the Liwas, the Mutas '!^rifs were instructed by the
Minister of Interior to set the date limit of Februaryl4, in
order to send the lists to the Council of Ministers for action.
Next Saturday, the Council of Ministers will consider
lists embodyt_ng the names of more than 5,000 persons. Moreover,
transportation has been speeded up. The daily average is
between 400 and 450 persons. It is understood that more than
27,000 have already left the country. (Az-Zaman)
ANGLO-IRAQI FINANCIAL TALKS.
Yesterday, Mr. Waight, representative of the British
Treasury who returned from Tehran, attended a meeting at the
Iraqi National Bank.
A certain optimism is noticed among the Iraqi delegation.
(Az-Zaman)
EDITORIAL......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 2 - February 14, 1951.
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Rep'ying to Sada Al-Ahali's comments on its article
about Vice-President Bar ey's-speech in support of Zionism,
Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi comments on the Arab League communique,
saying:
"It is clear that the Arab League has no other way to
choose than the practical one it did. If it sides with either
world camp, it loses its political personality and both camps
have not been fair to the Arabs in the Palestine ruestion. If
it decided neutrality as advocated by the Communists of the
world for the benefit of the Soviet camp and as called for by
some sentimental nationalists, this neutrality would have been
ridiculous in view of their present weakness and their shortage
of arms, because neutrality by itself doesnot prevent from its
being violated if reouired by ei.;her camp's interest. Taking
into consideration the geographical position of the Arab states
and the many resources they have, we find more than one important
reason for the conflicting camps to violate the Arabs' neutrality,
Therefore, we call on whcever is concerned over the national
interest to t.akt into considorat:irr. the facts when examining
su.-'.T a matte],
",resterdayl.s enei,'_ts". Under th:i;._ headline, Ash-Shaab
points out that German rehabilitation has been slowed down by
France's and Lritain's fears; but, the case of Japan is different
as there are no such po;iers to oppose it. Indeed, the U.S. has
taken tine `Ir.irk" of strpngtnenirg Japan in order to repel the
immedi`it : a..-:nace coming from the Soviet Union and China. Thus,
Japan i~; to get the assistance of the U.S. six years after the
atomic bomb was thrown on it.
After pointing that it has become a commonplace for
Western ro?i;icians to speak of the security of the Middle
East- =;ao.a 414.hali comments on the latest speech of British
Frei~lier' ._t;ti .
It believes that the "emphasized interest" in the Middle
East is arising from the prevailing international crisis. Then,
it adds, ''Tree Western powers, beside fanning this conflict
directly and .ndirectly by their plans based on preparation for
war, e:..ticki.ng to outdated regimes and on controlling the
word markets, are paving the way to plunge the Arab states and
the East3rn nations into the conflict. Their politicians are
repeatedly affirming that their security depends on placing
Middle '-astern states in the front line......'
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
SHORT......
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3 -
SHORT NEWS.
February 14, 1951.
The Head of the British Near Eastern Section of the
British Foreign Office has arrived in Baghdad on a tour of
Arab capitals. (Az-Zaman)
The Mexican Minister left last Sunday for Beirut.
(Az-Zaman)
The Syrian trade delegation arrived in Baghdad yesterday
afternoon, (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi)
According to A1-Ya::dha, some cabinet members mean to
resign. Other rumors say 7iat Mustafa Al-Umary has done it.
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. Thursday, February 15, 1951.
Baghdad, Iraq. 25X1A
Tin
KING AND REGENT DUE IN LONDON TODAY.
According to the Sharq Al-Adna Radio, King Faisal and
Regent Abdul Ilah are slated to arrive in London this evening.
(Ash-Shaab)
CHANGES IN THE ADMINISTRATION.
DG of Interior Abdul T[amid Rifaat has applied to the
Minister of Interior for retirement. His request will be
granted. He will be replaced by Taal Khalid, Mutasarrif of
Sulaimaniya. Rashid Najib, the First Assistant of the DG of
Interior and the acting DG of Municipalities, will assume charge
of the Mutasarrifiyah of Salaimaniya.
This will be coupled wtb/a new list of changes among
Mutasarrifs and (aimmagams. (Al-Fabaa)
Khalil Ibrahim, the Second Attache to the Paris T,E:gation,
has been summoned to Baghdad to be jut in charge of the
Propaganda Department and of the Baghdad Broadcasting Station.
As for Kamal Ibrahim, the present DG of Propaganda, and
Hassan Ad-Dujaili, Director of the Baghdad Broadcasting Station,
they are to be returned to the cadre of secondary schools.
(Al-Nabaa)
The Ministry of Interior intends to abolish the posts
of Oaimmaqam at the headquarters of the Liwas of Sulaimaniya,
Muntifik, Hilla, Amara and Diwaniya. (Al-Nabaa)
SYRO- IRAN.... .
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
2 - February 15, 1951.
_- T T; T.,KS TO BEGIN THIS MORNING.
A three-man Syrian trade delegation has arrived in
Baghdad on Tuesday. Yesterday, it laid a wreath on 1ueen
Aliya's grave. The talks will begin this morning. Iraq will
be represented by All Jaffar, DG of Customs, Dr. Saleh Haidar,
Asst. Governor of the National Bank, Zaki Abdul ltlahab, act.
DG of Imports, Dr. Nadhim Al-Pachachi, DG of Oil Affairs, and
Amin Al-Mumayiz, DG of the Arab Department in the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs. (Al-Umma)
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Commenting on the report that the Council of Ministers
has approved the Ministry of Finance's proposal for forming
a governmental imports company, Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi says that
the present government has undertaken a "successful step"
towards discharging its promises to the people for combatting
the prices rise.
This "positive" prcject i-ill affect the economic life
of the country. It will help to curb down prices. It will
reactivate the local market t,r making; consumers' goods available,
The payer concludes that; "the public has received the
Council of Ministers' approval to form an imports company with
deep pleasure. It is a new evidence of the endeavors displayed
by the prec e.1t government to combat the high cost of living, to
encourage production and to snti~uie the needs of the people at
fair prices.t'
"The Arab League", writes Ash-Shaab, "convened without
reaching any agreement upon any item of its agenda.
"The U.S. diplomats are meeting in Istanbul to examine
the affairs of the Middle East and to coordinate the U.S.
policy in the area. No doubt, they will discuss Arab affairs
from the political and defensive angles; they will exchange
information on conditions in the Arab states and on the Arabs'
great resentment and general desrair of their governments.
They will define the governments' responsibility for this state
of affairs. They will tell of the need for a sense of responsi-
bility on the part of these governments,
"The Istanbul conferrees will do all that and will talk
also of other Arab affairs, which did not occur to the Arab
governments at their latest League meeting. We do say the
Istanbul conference will do al;_ that,, but with earnestnesss
unexperiApoPo~eg*oo leLigib62/6i/ hi AlRDP83te00i?5R60F766f2o'6;3-0 be
over.....
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3 - February 15, 1951.
over and there will be no ado and no statements-."
"Today", writes Al-Ya dha, "the conference of the U.S.
diplomats in the Middle East is beginning in Istanbul. It is
presided by the Asst. Secretary of State for Near Eastern and
African Affairs. It is attended by the U.S. Air Secretary and
the Chief of the U.S. Fleet in the Mediterranean.
"This is not the first one of the U.S. diplomats in the
Middle East. But, this one is characterized by the fact that
it is coinciding with the present international conditions.
"Obviously, the conference will concentrate on discussing
the defense of this part of the world, repeatedly described by
the Anglo-Americans as a vacuum not to be disregarded in view
of the oil resources which the West is concerned to retain for
itself.
"We don't want to reiterate that such conferences will
be to no avail on the day of the catastrophe, as long as
Testern Imperialism has driven the Arab states to such a low
standard and has set up Israel as a bayonet in their flank.
"But, it sc ms tI _t American recklessness in unwilling
to care the consequences of the ill-rated policy to which the
Washington tyrants and the London torzentors subject the Arab
states. This recklessness is to sucr, an extent that the defense
of the Middle East is being discusses in the absence of the
inhabitants of the area. Moreover, a: usual the U.S. Diplomats
will not advise the governments of the, area of their decisions.
"The Americans who are beginner.-, in politics do not
appreciate the danger arising froi disregarding the reoples.
They will repent for their present behavior. The hour of
repentance is coming.
SHORT NEWS.
The Agriculture Department has recommended to the
Ministry of Economics seven types of prpjects:
1) Dry farming
2) Road building in Northern Iraq for economic and
agricultural development.
3) Agricultural production center .
4) Afforestation.
5) Improving tobacco.
6) Silos.
7) Cooperative Agricultural deyel
e
ment. (Al-Ittihad
Approv
d For Release 2002/01ZI:P-1A?3
415R007700120003-0
~;
An......
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 4 -
February 15, 1951.
i1 :ir (-;conoruic and social section has been formed in the
Iraqi Legation in Cairo for the exchange of this type of
information between the two countries. (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi)
In a communique from the Saudi Legation in Baghdad, the
reports about the crack in the Medina Mosque of the Frophet are
described as "exaggerated", because it is "old and does not
justify any alarm." Moreover, the communique announces, t"H.M.
King Abdul Aziz Aal Seoud has ordered that all the necessary
measures be adopted to repair it, and has taken on himself to
spend on the repairs whatever may be the cost." (Al-Umma)
At a press meeting at the Iranian Embassy Iranian
Mujtahid Imam Sayid Al-Iragiyyin, who is here on a short visit
on his way to Cairo where he spends usually the winter, told
newsmen, "I have spentmy first twenty years in Iraq. I love and
am proud of Ira4is. I have etablished a library in Kerbala.
I have prepared a grave in Iraq for myself." Then, he explained
that the purpose of his v-isi-c ftz to see the holy places and
to get in touch with the Ulamas with the intention of implement-
ing the idea of a Mosley: (Al-Umma)
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R0077001200
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. February 16, 1951
Baghdad, Iraq. February 17, 1951
FEBRUARY 15 MEETING OF THE CHAMBER OF DEPUTIES.
On February 15, the Chamber of Deputies met. Six
cabinet members were present: those of Works and Communications,
Finance, Social Affairs, Education and Justice, and Mohammed
Hassan Kubba, Minister without Portfolio.
The Minister of Social Affairs answered three questions.
The Minister of Works and Communications, three also. The
Minister of Education, one.
The Chamber approved the Ordinance for the export tax
on dates. The bill was passed by 52 votes against 23. The
opposition was made up of: Razzouq Shammas, Salem Jaffar,
Sakban Al-Elli, Abdul Razzak Al-Uzri, Abdul Aziz Jamil, Abdul
Kerim Kanna, Abdulla Sulaiman A1-Bayati, Abdulla Ash-Sharafani,
Obeid Al-Haj Khalaf, Izzat Murad A1-Shaikh, Ali Kadhim Abul
Teman, Faiq As-Samerrai, Mohammed Mahdi Kubba, Naji Al-Hermezi,
Ahmed Al-Naqib, Edward Georgie, Ismail Ghanem, Towfiq Al-Mukhtar,
Jamal Ar-Rawi, Haj Shemdin, Husamiddin Jem'a, Dhiban A1-Ghabban,:
and Abdul Samad Al-Bechari.
Then, the Chamber ratified the Agreement No. $$ pertaining
to establishing an employment agency. Faiq As-Samerrai urged
the government to change its "mentality" regarding the workers
and their trade unions. Abdul Kerim Kanna told the government
not to fear trade unionism. Razzouq Shammas, expresses the hope
that the agreement will induce the government to set up an
employment agency and to ensure the workers against unemployment
and sickness. The Minister of Social Affairs confessed that the
labor system in Iraq is "defective" and hopes the agreement will
help to meet the shortcomings.
The Chamber adjourned until next Monday (i.e. February 19).
The agenda of the coming meeting includes Ali Kamal's sugges-
tion to hire the services of German doctors and engineers, and
the report of the Economic Committee on the Skin Association.
(Az-Zaman. 2/16)
EDITORIAL.....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
February 16 and 17, 19)1.
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Sketching the "dark" picture of the world situation,
Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi (2/16) points out that the Korean war is
gaining momentum and fierceness, President Truman is asking
Congress for more emergency powers, Europe is stepping up its
military preparations on a large scale, Hungary is annoying
Yugoslavia, and the Indochinese rebels are preparing a fresh
attack against the French forces.
In this state of "turmoil", we have to prepare ourselves
to face the worse possible catastrophes. Premier Nuri As-Said
was right to call for such steps at his lecture at the Faisal
Hall. Events prove that he was wise to propose the reactivating
of the Supreme Defense Council for an examination of internationa'
conditions. The Korean war may spread, and we should be on the
alert.
Speaking of the Communist attack in Korea, Sada Al-Ahali
notes that it is still going on and it is not yet known whether
it is meant to "liberate" Korea entirely from the American
forces or it is "part of a plan to bleed the U.S. military power
to white."
The J.S. is politically, economically and militarily
committed in the Korean war. Its continuance means more arms
and more troops to be shipped to Korea. The U.S. is unwilling
to "resort to the good solution of withdrawing from Korea after
its intervention has brought total destruction to the country."
Switching to the rearmament of Japan, the paper under-
scores that "Japanese militarism has been in the past an instru-
ment of aggression and of imperialism in the Far East." The
U.S. means to gain a trump in the Far Eastern game.
Summing up the situation in the Far East, the paper says
in the end, "The Far East is at present a burning volcano of
nationalism. The U.S. considers it as an immediate menace to
its political and economic influence in this part of the world.
That is why, it is trying to consolidate its military power by
reviving the Japanese to suppress this nationalism. The plan
is a menace not only to Korea but also to the Philippines, to
Indochina,to the Malaya, to Burma and to India, as demonstrated
by Japanese expansionsim before the last war."
SHORT......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
-3-
February 16 and 17, 1951.
The Anglo-Ira i financial talks are expected to be
concluded tomorrow (Sunday). It seems that understanding has
prevailed. The government will most probably make an official
announcement. (Az-Zaman. 2/17)
According to a Beirut message, Camille Shamoun will visit
Baghdad to consult with Premier Nuri As-Said. (Az-Zaman)
Rashid Selbi, of the Ministry of Education, has returned
in Baghdad. (Az-Zaman. 2/17)
According to Economics Minister Abdul Maiid Mahmud the
Syro-Iraqi trade talks will last a week. (Az-Zaman. 2/16)
The Ministry of Works and Communications, in a memorandum
to the Council of Ministers, has requested the appointment of
Mr. Hardy to the post of DG of Irrigation, formerly held by
Abdul Amir Al-Uzri. (Az-Zaman. 2 /lb)
Dr. Jamali is reported to have arrived in London from
Lake Success. (A1-Akhbar. 2/16)
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
D A I L Y R E V I E W
of the 'c I `
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. February 18, 1951
Baghdad, Iraq February 19, 1951
25X1A
END OF ANGLO-IRAQI FINANCIAL TALKS.
At a press conference held on February 18, Finance Minister
Abdul 1, ahab Merjan announced the conclusion of the current Anglo-
Iraqi financial negotiations. He handed to the newsmen the
following written statement:
"Today, the Government of Iraq and the Government of the
United Kingdom have completed the arrangements for providing
Iraqis needs of scarce currencies for her imports and other
necessary payment, for the period beginning on October 1, 1950,
and ending on September 30, 1951, provided that these arrange-
ments be revised at the end of that period.
"Iraq's transaction reserves will increase from 2 million
to 4 million sterling pounds. It has been agreed to release
other sums in sterling not exceeding the total of 6 mil;.ion, as
the sterling account No. 1 of Iraq decreases to less than 6
million pounds during the remaining period of the financial agree-
ment signed in August 1947. Article 7 of the said agreement is
nullified. The sterling balances frozen by virtue of the said
Article will be released.
"The text of the correspondence exchanged in this respect
will be released as soon as possibe."
Answering the newsmen's queries, Abdul Wahab Merjan stated
that the scarce currencies needed for the oil refinery have been
made available.
Referring to the nullified Article 7 of the 1947 agreement,
he explained that Ira was getting an interest of 2.5% on the
sterling balances. 20 of which was being frozen; and 0.5% was
being released. Now, the accumulated interest is being released
and amounts to ID. 1,784,000. Moreover, 6 million sterling pounds
are being released. Iraq's sterling currency reserves is being
increased by 2 million, bringing the total amount to 4 million.
(Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi. 2/l$
SALEH....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
2 - February 18 and 19, 1951.
SALEH JABR BREAKS HIS SILENCE.
In a seven-answer statement to Ash-Shaab (2/18), Senator
Saleh Jabr airs his views about unemployment, social security
and trade-unionism in Iraq.
Answering the first question about unemployment, he
said that the existence of such a problem in Iraq is "indeniable",
but "not inevitable." However, it is "painful to have it in a
country as rich as ours." The problem, he elaborated, is more
than the one of unemployment; it is, indeed, a matter of "poverty
and of a low standard of living." In Europe, unemployment is due
to a high density of population; but, Iraq is underpopulated.
"It is incumbent upon any government to afford work for
everyone and it is the right of every Iraqi to ask for it from
the government. This should be a fundamental principle." Be-
side, it is possible for the government to give work to the Youth
by launching various productive projects.
Asked about the feasibleness of these projects, Saleh Jabr
stressed that it is a matter of "good will and sincere determina-
tion." As for funds, they can be provided through the oil royal-
ties, taxes (after revising the present system) and international
loans.
Answering the third question about his opinion regarding the
emigration of the farmers of Southern Iraq into the capital, Saleh
Jabr conceded the right of everyone to work where it pleases him.
But, this emigration is the object of concern, because rural areas
are deprived of manpower and urban districts suffer of unemploy-
ment. No doubt, it is caused by their living conditions. "In-
deed," he asserted, "the time has come to deal with the lands
problem and to reconsider the present relationships between the
farmers and the lands holders and between the government and the
lands holders." The government, he went on, should give special
care to the farmers, because they constitute the majority of the
people.
Asked about the social problem regarding the disabled and
aged persons, widows and orphans, Saleh Jabr said that the govern-
ment should take care of supportless persons. The government "can
implement a social security plan and find the necessary funds for
it because it affects the life of many thousands of Iraqis."
Answering the fifth question, Saleh Jabr pointed out that
the right of workers to form unions is "unquestionable", and he
"supports" the Iraqi workers in their claim to such organizations.
He is "proud' of having permitted unions to form in 194k.
To......
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
3-
February 18 and 19, 1951.
To the remark that unionism is mixed with Communist activi-
ties in the opinion of some, Saleh Jabr conceded that it was and
it will be in future. However, there should be a discrimination
between the two, and workers should cooperate in preserving the
essentially vocational character of their unions by averting to
shed any political color on them.
Asked whether in view of his experience he thinks all he
stated is practical, Saleh Jabr affirmed that any government can
realize it. "As for myself", he said, "I do not pretend to be in-
fallible, and no one can make such a claim. But, I have done what
I believed right. The matter is not that I or anyone else
achieves or does not achieve anything, but that the welfare of the
country be attained whether by me or anyone else. I and others,
we will pass away, but the people shall remain. For the people's
sake, all should cooperate and the people's sake, all should
strive." (Ash-Shaab. 2/18)
N.B.- The above statement was reproduced the next day
by Al-Umma and A1-Nabaa. (Ed.)
EDITORIAL COMMENTS.
Prompted by reports that France has agreed to put at
the disposal of the U.S. five air bases in Morocco, and that
Britain has agreed to put at the disposal of the U.S. her-air
bases in the Arab states, and pointing to the American/ diplomats'
conference in Istanbul, Sada Al-Ahali (2/19) says, "All that makes
it clear that the Arab states are confronted with unquestionab]e
great dangers. The Americans and the British, regardless of any
consideration, are striving to implement their projects and they
are disposing of this area without any regard to the will of its
inhabitants. They are implementing their decided imperialistic
policy as agreed among the U.S., Britain and. France. It is meant
to consolidate the influence of imperialism. This will make the
struggle of the Arab peoples against it still harder...... It is
meant to prevent the liberation of the Arab peoples and to plunge
them into the coming war."
As a counter-action, the paper calls for a movement for
neutrality among popular organizations.
"The government is in a state of recovery", affirms Faiq
As-Samerrai in Liwa Al-Istiglal (2/18), because its prime minister
is himself recovering and no one may tell the people about the
League meeting nor take any decision of importance.
Backing.....
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 4 -
February i$ and 19, 1951.
Backing the Qudsi plan, ex-Premier Muzahim Al-Fachachi
recalls that the German unity and the Italian unity were confront-
ed with more difficulties and that, in fact, the Wahabi revolt in
Saudi Arabia, Mohammed Ali's conquests and the Arab Great Revolt
of King Hussain were striving for the same goal, that is the
unity of the Arabs, (Az-Zaman. 2/18)
SHORT NEWS.
On Tuesday (tomorrow), the Iraqi-Lebanese trade agreement
will be signed by Economics Minister Abdul ?MIajid Mahmud and
Lebanese Minister in Baghdad Kadhem P1-?Solh. (Az-Zaman.2/19)
The Court c-' E ss-=eens has set the date for the hearings of
Khayyoun A1-Obeic. crse nrxt month, (Az-Zaman. 2/19)
Weisi Shehab aria Qurni Sher-:AL, have been sentenced to one
year's imprisonment for Communist activities. They were caught in
Erbil while distributing Communist leaflets. (Az-Zaman. 2/19)
The Council of Ministers, upon the recommendation of the
Minister of Economics, has authorised the payment of ID. 5,000
to a British law firm as fees for the case against the IPC.
(Al-Umma. 2/19)
The charter members of the Journalists' Association
convened last Thursday at the Sada A1=Aaa].i newspaper. They
decided to have a meeting this afternoon, Monday, February 19,
to which all newspapermen are invited fsr electing an administra-
tive committee. (Al-Yaqdha. 2/19)
The Chamber of Deputies is convening this morning.
(Ash-Shaab. 2/19)
Dr. Jamali will arrive in Baghdad on February 21 most
probably. (A1-Nabas. 2/18)
A Royal Bilat announcement says that the King arrived in
London on February 15. (Ash-Shaab. 2/1$)
Approved For Release 2002/0]U1$ : 1?IA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
25X1A
D A I L Y REVi-?EW
of the
B A G H D A D P R E S S
Embassy of the U.S.A. February 20, 1951.
Baghdad, Iraq.
FEBRUARY 19 MEETING OF THE CHAMBER OF DEPUTIES.
Yesterday's meeting of the Chamber saw a strong argument
between the Deputy-Prime Minister, Towfiq As-Suwaidi, and two
deputies of the Independence Party.
First of all, the Chamber was notified of Abdul Majid
Mahmud's election to the Afeq district. New questions were
submitted to the government; Ahmed Hafidh is inquiring from
the Minister of Foreign Affairs why the Iraqi delegate at Lake
Success dissented from the other Arab delegatet and voted for
the U.S. proposal naming China as aggressor. The Vice-President
announced the reception of a draft bill amending the Commerce
Code. The Chamber approved the Mortgage Bank Law and switched
to t hq amendment of the income-tax law which caused the argument
between Towfiq As-Suwaidi and the deputies of the Independence
Party.
f
Mohammed Siddiq Shanshal tabled a motion for an immediate
discussion of the draft law amending the income-tax; :and it was
approved. The next speaker was Faiq As-Samerrai. He raised the
case of the liquidation of the Eastern Tobacco Co., of which
Towfiq As-Suwaidi was a shareholder.
According to Towfiq As-Suwaidi, the Eastern Tobacco Co.
paid for the three years it existed all its income-tax dues.
But, profits fell by 50%. The financial authorities refused to
assess them on the new rate, unless their source cease. Thus,
the Company, after consulting lawyers, decided to liquidate it-
self. But, it was reformed with a higher capital that is
ID, $0,000 instead of ID. 10,000; some new shareholders were
brought in. The government refused to take it into consideration
regarding it as an outer change.- The Company sued the financial
authorities before the judicial committee of general assessment
and won its case.
According to Abdul Karim Al-Uzri, Minister of Finance in
the outgoing Suwaidi government, there were two cases wherein the
company changed its name: One,- the Hasso Co, and Two, the Eastern
Tobacco Co,,p.The Hasso Co., established the precedent; it changed
its name and won its rcase through the Q judicial procedure and the
out come w*p neC Fid0eleasye QO /01Q rtCIA RDP83 00415R0077001200
~n~ ....,
 Approved-For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
February 20, 1951.
In order to put an end to this new precedent, the Ministry
of Finance at his time (time of Abdul Karim Al-Uzri) thought of
amending the income-tax law as submitted in the draft before
parliament.
This, according to explanatory memorandum attached to the
draft law, has cost the government more than 30,000 dinars.
Siddiq Shanshal and Faiq As-Samerrai capitalized on the
case of the Eastern Tobacco Co. to accuse Towfiq As-Suwaidi of
grafting.
While Shanshal was speaking, Towfiq As-Suwaidi walked out;
but, the former told him not to flee.
And the Chamber adjourned until Monday, February 26, 1951.
(Al-Umma)
ANSWER TO SAL EH JABR'S STATEMENT.
Giving the repartee to Saleh Jabr's statement to the
Ash-Shaab newspaper, As-SiJ it reminds him, in connection with un-
employment, that two of his relatives are having two jobs; in
daytime they work at the Ministry of Interior, and at nights at
the Baghdad Radio. Regarding the lands problem, it reminds him
of the state of affairs in the Liwa of Muntafik. Regarding
trade-unions, it recalls that he persecuted the Railway' workers'
union.
Al-Hawadith points out that in his seventh answer Saleh
Jabr calmly confessed his mistakes and did not minimize his
responsibility. Moreover, he appeals for national unity; and
this appeal is worth heeding.
THE ANGLO-IRAQI FINANCIAL TALKS.
Commenting on the statement given by the Minister of
Finance at his press conference on the Anglo-Iraqi financial
talks, Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturi expresses its appreciation of the
efforts made the Ministry of Finance to bring them to a success-
ful end, and adds, "No doubt, by its success the government has
undertaken a large stride to afford the necessary currencies for
upholding its movement of positive reforms and for increasing the
productive capacity of the country.
SHORT... .
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
 Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0
- 3 -
February 20) 1951-.
Ahmed Ar-Rawi, Minister-designate in Amman, will be
leaving for his post either on February 25 or 26. (Al-Ittihad
Ad-Dasturi)
The Propaganda Department is denying the report of Al Nabaa
that the Ministry of Interior means to abolish the posts of
Qaimmaqams at the Liwa headquarters of Sulaimaniya Nasiriya,
Hilla, Amara and Diwaniya. (Al-Ittihad Ad-Dasturij
Newspapermen met yesterday afternoon to elect the
administrative committee of the newly-founded Newspapermen's
Association. The results are: Kamel Chaderchi, President;
Salman As-Safwani, Secretary; Towfiq As-Sumani, Treasurer;
Jaffar A1-Khalili, and Adel Awni as members. (Al-Ittihad Ad-
Dasturi)
Premier Nuri As-Said is recovering. He means to go to
Basra and, even, abroad for rest. (Al-Hawadith)
Mohammed Mahdi Aj-Jawahery has just returned from Lebanon
where hs was invited to participate in the panegyric of Abdul
Hamid Karame. But, Al-Alarn Al-Arabi reports that Poet Aj-Jawahery
was ordered by the security authorities in Lebanon to leave the
country within 24 hours.
Today, the Baghdad Criminal Court is to hear the case of
ex-Staff Major Ghadban As-Saari. He is accused of disseminating
Uommunism among the armed forces following the confiscation of
his book, "Korea in the Parade of Freedom". Forty-five lawyers
have volunteered to defend him. The list is headed by Abdul
'VJahab Mahmud, the President of the Bar Association, and includes
persons like Daud As-Sa'di, Abdul Razzak Ash-Shaikhly, Abdul
Karim Kanna, and Khedouri Khedouri. (Al-Alam Al-Arabi)
Approved For Release 2002/01/18 : CIA-RDP83-00415R007700120003-0