ANNEX Secretary, J.I.C. Axis Strategy in North Africa. As a result of the advance of the 8th Army to the BUERAT position it is clear that Rommel's ability to maintain his army in its present position now depends in large measure on the flow of supplies from TUNISIAN ports. A full examination has been made in the War Office of his ability to maintain himself, and it seems clear that his position, though possibly all right at the moment, might well become prejudiced by any Allied thrust to cut the link between the TUNISIAN ports and the TRIPOLITANIAN battlefield.