Office of the Historian

178. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Saudi Arabia1

Washington, September 30, 1955—7:06 p.m.

157. We particularly concerned prevent Saudi Arabia from following Egyptian example in reaching agreement purchase Soviet arms and expect send you instructions make representations King week October 3. We considering … theme Nasser leading Egypt into arms of godless Communism which King because of his special position in Moslem world has responsibility to stop. In addition we are considering emphasizing to King in view his reported fear [Page 274] internal subversion and suspicion Egyptian advisers extreme danger in permitting Soviet influence penetrate any Arab country through arms deals.

We repeating oral representations which Allen will make to Nasser October 1 and separately letter from Secretary to Nasser which now will not be delivered but will form additional basis for verbal presentation. Your suggestions re best approach to King requested.

In meantime instructions Deptel 56 and 1412 stand and you should not discuss locally possibility approach mentioned above.

Dulles
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 774.56/9–3055. Top Secret; Priority. Drafted by William C. Burdett and approved by Russell. Pouched to London.↩
  2. Documents 170 and 174, respectively.↩