File No. 867.48/293
The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in Turkey (Philip)
2678. Your 1821, May 21, and Department’s 2600, May 24.1 Have you yet urged Ottoman Government to take steps for protection Christians in Syria? For your information. Report from Cairo states Syria famine-stricken, people dying starvation by thousands, particularly Lebanon. Estimated 80,000 dead starvation Lebanon alone up to beginning May. Also reported distress not due entirely natural war conditions, but to political design on part Turkish Government to exterminate by starvation Christian population. Eyewitnesses report military cordon prevents entry of food into Lebanon. There is strong feeling of sympathy in the United States for destitute in Syria, and many would like to send relief if this can be done. Ascertain whether Turkish Government will permit relief supplies to be sent Lebanon and other parts Syria, to be distributed by neutral committee.