More about Syria after 21 June 1941

When the 10th Indian Division arrived in Iraq, that freed the 4th Cavalry Brigade to aid in Syria. On 21 June 1941, the brigade advanced towards Palmyra from Abu Kemal and from Haifa. When an outpost was captured 40 miles from the objective, the Vichy forces were alerted and sent aircraft to attack the brigade. The 4th Cavalry Brigade was pummelled from the air, and lacked the means to defend itself, so was unable to advance on Palmyra. That helped Palmyra to hold out for 12 days. This is based on the account in Vol.II of the Official History.