431. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Iraq1
707. Embtel 889.2 FYI: Particularly in view British sensitiveness following recent events in Jordan, Department not anxious interfere in relationship between British and Iraqis in equipping and training Iraqi Air Force or take steps which might be interpreted as displacing British in area. In Memorandum Understanding February 26, 1954 re US grant military assistance program Iraq it agreed that should UK not be in position meet requirements of Iraqi Air Force for certain types of equipment and training US, after conferring with UK, would consider providing such equipment and training. We are continuing adhere generally to policies laid down by that memorandum.
In companion message Defense indicating we would like have Embassy’s recommendations as to requirements both in equipment and training British are not able meet or will not likely be able meet before discussing Iraqi request further with Nuri or other members [Page 994] Iraqi Government. In light Memorandum Understanding Department will want discuss these requirements with British before considering assistance. End FYI.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 787.5–MSP/3–356. Secret; Priority. Drafted by Hallett and approved by Rountree.↩
- In telegram 889, March 3, Gallman reported several Iraqi requests for U.S. assistance in training and building up the Iraqi Air Force. Gallman stated that the Iraqis evidently were not satisfied with the kind of equipment they were purchasing from the United Kingdom or with the provisions of the pilot training program. Gallman added that the request for pilot training seemed to present fewer difficulties in terms of U.S. budgetary restraints and relations with the British. Gallman advocated meeting the request for pilot training. (Ibid.)↩