319. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Syria1
528. Embtels 6452 and 653.3 We have studied reference telegrams as well as related messages carefully. Our assessment is that plans reported … are unlikely be brought to successful conclusion. It seems to us that these matters are of primary concern to Syrians…. US does not wish to become involved in any way and is much concerned lest we be accused of abetting such plans.
Since … knows plans have been reported Washington by ArmAtt we anticipate that some … SSNP members may conclude in one way or another that US approves or at least does not object to these plans. You should accordingly, in your discretion and in consultation with ArmAtt, make it clear that US has no role in … plans and should discourage further consultations this subject.4
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 682.83/1–1356. Top Secret; Priority; Eyes Only. Drafted by Wilkins and approved by Allen who signed for Dulles.↩
- Supra.↩
- Telegram 653 from Damascus, January 11, reported that a source had told Moose of an SSNP request for help in carrying out a coup in Syria. The source described the SSNP as a well-organized and disciplined group, capable of succeeding, which needed additional army and tactical guidance. Specifically, the SSNP had asked for assurance in two areas: (1) that recognition be given a new regime; and (2) that steps be taken to see that Israel did not move against Syria during the operation. Moose commented in telegram 653 that he continued to believe that the SSNP proposal merited careful study and that the source’s views should carry considerable weight. (Department of State, Central Files, 783.00/1–1156)↩
- On January 15, Moose reported that the previous day he and Colonel Molloy had informed the source that the United States did not wish to pursue the matter further. In the absence of U.S. assistance, the source’s initial reaction was to drop the plan entirely. (Telegram 664 from Damascus; ibid., 682.83/1–1556)↩