We find ourselves shocked by the unilateral Italian intervention into Crete and Athens. As far as we are aware, the Greek government expressed no requests for aid from Italy, and nor were Britain and France informed of Italian intentions in any way - indeed, we still have not had any communication on this matter, directly or indirectly. This, in itself, is quite alarming; as we would hope that the Italian government would come to the negotiating table before it goes to the battlefield.
This rash move creates an exceptionally dangerous situation: European forces may accidentally fire upon one another in Greece, mistaking one another for Turks, and causing a serious incident. In addition, as Turkish forces on Crete have surrendered and are now in the custody of British and Greek forces on the island, there is no reasonable need for Italian forces to be there whatsoever. But we can only assume that this is merely a result of slow communications with regard to the situation.
If Italy wishes to join the Powers in protecting Greek independence and sovereignty, then we invite the Italians to co-operate with the Anglo-French expeditionary forces and join us, jointly, in expelling the Ottoman menace from Greek soil. If Italy has other intentions than co-operation with the expedition, however, then we urge them to withdraw, as Greek independence, in accordance with international treaties to which Italy is signatory, is non-negotiable.
