373. Telegram From the Consulate General in Istanbul to the Department of State1
203. From Henderson. I arrived Istanbul simultaneously with Ambassador Warren noon August 24. At 6 pm we were received by Prime Minister Menderes accompanied by Zorlu and Esenbel.
The Prime Minister opened our lengthy conversation by describing in detail views exchanged during his meeting with Iraq and Jordan Kings and their advisers that day and previously. He stressed concern and seriousness with which they all viewed situation. Although Lebanon not represented in Istanbul meeting PM was keeping close touch Lebanese Government and convinced Lebanon was equally concerned.
Istanbul meetings had discussed wide range of possible moves to counter communization Syria including diplomatic activities, possibility utilizing Syrian leaders in exile, assessment of military strengths of Iraq, Jordan and Syria. There possibility para-military action might be required in case unbearable provocation.
Arab conferees were hopeful that they could secure at least moral support other non-Communist Arab States against Syria becoming Soviet satellite. In addition his message to King Saud (of which Department aware) King Hussein had also communicated with leaders of Libya, Tunisia and Morocco. No replies had yet been received. Iraqis are also getting in touch directly with Saud to allay any fears he might have as to their aims. No communications have been sent to Nasser. Some of the Iraqis thought it might be desirable for record to appeal to him in name Arab unity but Hussein felt such appeal would be useless.
[Page 657]Prime Minister then mentioned that conferees were concerned at possible attitude USSR, Egypt, and Israel. He said any move by Israel would be fatal as it would unite Arab world. I told him we had expressed to Israelis hope it would act with greatest restraint. As for Egyptians I said I hoped we would be able make clear them inadvisability any action their part. I added presence certain elements Sixth Fleet in eastern Mediterranean waters might have restraining influence as well.
Major problems posed by Soviets attitude would require of course most serious study. Soviet threats would not deter US from continuing assist any friendly governments against international communism.
At Prime Minister’s request I then set out current Washington thinking concerning Syrian crisis in accordance my instructions. I said US deeply concerned Syrian developments and believed real danger Syria might become Soviet satellite, as present ruling clique consolidated its power and Soviet arms and technicians continued pour into Syria. It Washington’s belief that if processes now taking place in Syria remain unchecked Syria in short time will as fully fledged satellite state become member Soviet bloc. Washington therefore thoroughly understood concern Syrian neighbors and their feeling that their security menaced. I could assure him US would give all appropriate support in UN and otherwise to Syria’s Moslem neighbors in case they were forced to take some kind defensive action in response Syrian provocations. Armed force should not be used however except in circumstances fully justifiable under Charter UN. Immediate and high-level attention had been given to Turk and Iraqi communication forwarded by Ambassador Warren. It had been decided that I should expedite my planned visit to ME to consult personally with Ambassador Warren and Prime Minister Menderes and if considered desirable with Arab leaders currently in Istanbul. Prime Minister was visibly pleased at US interest and attitude.
In response my question Turkey’s role in Syrian crisis, Prime Minister said Arab conferees believed any initiative must come from Arabs but Turkey would be prepared if necessary enter picture at secondary stage. Following inconclusive discussion possible ways and means considered in previous Turks and Iraqi conferences of offsetting Syrian communization, Prime Minister said he was to meet Arab Kings and their advisers and would tell them US understanding and sympathetic. Subsequently, it might be desirable for me to meet Hussein and Feisal and their advisers.
Department repeat where desired.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 110.15–HE/8–2657. Top Secret; Limit Distribution. Repeated to Ankara.↩