Office of the Historian

365. Telegram from the Department of State to the Consulate General at Geneva1

Washington,October 28, 1955—5:55 p.m.

1037. Eyes only Russell. . . . Nasser reportedly anxious reach earliest possible settlement with Israel and discuss “all other outstanding problems of area” with US.Nasser quoted as saying “if 1947 resolutions not possible basis of settlement then I want someone to tell me what is possible basis”.Nasser finds Secretary’s August 26 speech vague and fears Secretary thinking only of minor territorial adjustments.

Nasser much concerned over Secretary’s conversations with Molotov on Near East questions. Believes they imply “sphere of influence” thinking on part of both US and Soviets which unacceptable if Egypt is to be regarded as independent country.Nasser fails understand why Secretary does not discuss Middle East with him.

. . . source denied GOE has knowledge of possible Soviet deals with other Arab states but believes Nasser probably encouraging Syria and possibly Saudi Arabia to enter into limited Soviet deals.

Limit strictly distribution this information.

Hoover
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 684A.86/10–2855. Secret. Drafted and approved by Burdett, who initialed for Hoover.↩