Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Near East: Jordan-Yemen, Volume XIII

411. Telegram From the Department of State to the Consulate General in Dhahran¹

Washington, October 22, 1957—3:44 p.m.

171. View shortage of time and rapidity of developments in UNGA re Syria, Schwinn should convey on most urgent basis following to King:

Secretary October 22 in exchange of views with Saudi Ambassador² indicated US interested in and encouraged by King’s mediation proposal. In furtherance US view problem should be settled through regional efforts, if possible, US desires cooperate with King and prepared consider any suggestions King may have with respect current Syrian complaint.

In response Ambassador’s question whether Secretary might wish convey through him any comments or suggestions to King, Secretary stated it might be helpful if Saudi delegation could officially inform UNGA of Saudi mediation efforts, indicate effort continuing and offer remains open. Secretary also stated if King felt postponement UN action might facilitate his mediation efforts, Saudi delegation might be instructed cooperate with moves postpone debate.

(FYI: Ambassador stated he would relay Secretary’s suggestion to King, but indicated to Secretary personal belief that, while Saudis might be willing inform UNGA, SAG might not wish propose any formal UNGA recognition or support Saudi efforts. Ambassador said, however, postponement debate and resolution might help King’s efforts. End FYI)

In event King’s mediation effort not successful, Secretary stated US might make effort build on King’s efforts in UN and support mediation by SYG or President UNGA. Secretary indicated Department also considering possible introduction broader resolution which would also request investigation charges leveled against US, but Department realizes disadvantages broader debate and has made no decision this matter. He stressed US prefers settlement on regional basis and referred Article 33 UN Charter.³

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 682.83/10–2257. Secret; Niact. Drafted by Newsom; cleared in draft with Wilcox and Howe; and approved by Rountree who signed for Dulles. Repeated to Jidda, Ankara, and USUN.
2. The memorandum of the conversation by Newsom is not printed. (Ibid.)
3. Article 33 of the U.N. Charter called for the use of regional agencies or arrangements, as well as other means, in seeking a peaceful solution to disputes.