Chapter 0156: Temporary Compromise
Germany and France stand as pivotal members of the Central Powers and the Allies, respectively, with Germany being the leader of the former. The current atmosphere between the two nations is fraught with tension, leading many pessimists to believe that war is now inevitable.
The other members of both alliances are significantly affected by this escalating situation. According to the treaties signed, once hostilities commence, they too will be inexorably drawn into the conflict.
Germany's allies, the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Kingdom of Italy, are poised to support Germany against the Allies. The Austro-Hungarians are certain to fulfill their obligations, joining Germany in the fight against the Allies. However, the Italians remain unpredictable; their decisions are difficult to ascertain.
France's allies, Russia and Britain, have signed military alliances with France, ensuring Russia's involvement should war break out. Although the British have not formalized a military pact, the French confidently believe that Britain will not remain passive. A French defeat would not only be detrimental to Britain but would also threaten its dominant position. Thus, the French feel emboldened, which explains their audacity in dealing with Germany.
The crushing defeat in the Franco-Prussian War lingers as a nightmare for many in France, splitting public opinion into two factions: one yearning for revenge, eager to triumph over Germany in future conflicts to redeem their honor, and the other advocating for peace. However, the war hawks currently dominate the French government.
As tensions between France and Germany intensify, the British also find themselves in a precarious situation. Prime Minister Asquith convened his cabinet to deliberate on the matter. The current state of affairs is equally tense for Britain, prompting its officials to proceed with utmost caution.
"Gentlemen, do you think the French and Germans will come to blows over Morocco?" Prime Minister Asquith inquired.
It is worth noting that six years prior, Kaiser Wilhelm II's visit to Morocco had incited significant French ire, nearly precipitating a war that could have engulfed the world.
"Prime Minister, the situation is precarious. The Germans are exhibiting a remarkably rigid stance, and the French are equally resolute, both demonstrating a willingness to fight. If the situation escalates further, the likelihood of war is undoubtedly high," expressed Sir Edward Grey, the Foreign Secretary, with evident concern.
"Blast it, the Germans only know how to stir trouble!" exclaimed the First Lord of the Admiralty, Mckenna. The Royal Navy is in the midst of rapid expansion; however, constructing a battleship is no simple task, typically requiring two to three years. Thus, a significant enhancement in naval strength is still some time away, during which the Royal Navy must avoid entanglement in war.
As First Lord, Mckenna feels immense pressure; the Royal Navy, undefeated for centuries, cannot afford to falter in any future conflict. Should failure occur, his name would become synonymous with disgrace, a legacy he desperately wishes to avoid.
"Prime Minister, perhaps we should urge the French to make some concessions. Without our support, they would be unlikely to provoke the Germans. Even with Russian assistance, defeating Germany would be exceedingly difficult," suggested Chancellor Lloyd George.
"Absolutely not!" retorted Home Secretary Churchill before Asquith could respond. "France is our crucial ally. If war breaks out, they will be our primary ground force against Germany. The British Army, in both size and capability, cannot match the Germans, and thus we must rely on the French. In this context, we must support France unconditionally, demonstrating our sincerity. Only then will they cooperate closely with us in any future conflict."
The ministers nodded in agreement, recognizing that a war seemed increasingly inevitable. Their uncertainty lay solely in the timing of its outbreak. Given France's importance as an ally, supporting them is deemed essential for the future.
"Moreover, we cannot afford to appear weak before the Germans; otherwise, they may perceive us as intimidated, emboldening them further. We must adopt a firm stance to deter them and buy us more time," Churchill continued.
"Churchill is absolutely correct; we cannot yield to the Germans!" Asquith affirmed.
"Prime Minister, what if war does erupt as a result?" Sir Edward Grey asked.
"If war does ensue, I am confident that the British Empire possesses sufficient strength to confront and prevail in the conflict," Asquith replied, his tone resolute.
"Prime Minister, although many of our warships are still under construction, the Royal Navy is confident in its ability to defeat the Germans should hostilities commence," Mckenna stated.
Asquith nodded in satisfaction, pleased with the navy's assurance.
The British government adopts a notably assertive stance regarding the Moroccan crisis, publicly declaring that France's actions in Morocco are justifiable and urging Germany to exercise restraint and withdraw its warships.
Simultaneously, the Royal Navy dispatches a light cruiser and a destroyer from Gibraltar to Morocco, signaling its support for France.
This backing from Britain bolsters French confidence, with the latter asserting its unwavering resolve on the Moroccan issue. Should Germany seek conflict, they are prepared to fight.
In light of these developments, Germany must reconsider the timing of any potential military action. The Allies are united in their support for France on this matter, yet Germany's allies are less cohesive. While the Austro-Hungarian Empire pledges support, the Kingdom of Italy calls for restraint from both sides, complicating Germany's position further.
Ultimately, Germany finds itself compelled to temporarily compromise, taking a step back to seek an opportune moment for action in the future.