376. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Lebanon1
737. For Henderson. Instructions issued at highest level to fulfill MAP commitments to ME countries as quickly as possible. Directive applies to all MAP ME nations but Iraq, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia in sequence named given overriding priority. If necessary to meet commitments contained in approved MAP programs including Richards commitments, items will be pulled from active units.
In implementation this policy following matériel being air lifted to Iraq: Thirty-six 4.2 inch mortars, eighty-two 106mm recoilless rifles, 162 AN/GRC–9 radios, six OandL aircraft and ammo for 106 rifles.
Air lift of following authorized for Jordan immediately: 40 jeeps mounted with 106mm recoilless rifles, ammo for 106mm rifles and 40,000 rounds 50 caliber rifle ammo. Urgent consideration being given remainder Jordan program.
Regarding Saudi Arabia top priority assigned items sold pursuant exchange notes of April 2. To expedite fulfillment training commitment Air Force being directed fly five F86Fs to SA immediately and to provide 2 replacement T33s.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 110.13–HE/8–2857. Top Secret; Priority; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Burdett; cleared in substance with Colonel Shepley, Greene, and Murphy; and approved by Rountree who signed for Dulles.↩