File No. 763.72/8867

The Consul at Tiflis ( Smith) to the Secretary of State

[Telegram]

I have dispatched today the following telegram to the United States Minister in Persia:

Have been requested by commander in chief and Trans-Caucasian Government to inform you that it instructed your Russian colleague to protest against closing of Persian frontier to Allied forces and individuals and to request you, in view of the danger involved in such measure to Christian and foreign population, to join in such protest. Active German propaganda and danger to our missions in Persia would appear to justify such protest, notwithstanding the traditional policy of the Government of the United States in regard to integrity Persia.

The prohibition referred to leaves Turkish-Persian front undefended and endangers British position in Bagdad. Have advised unofficially Trans-Caucasian Government to modify protest by holding out to Persian Government the hope of a friendly settlement of Russian-Persian financial and customs problems. Is the Department in communication with Embassy and other consulates Russia? Order of Maximalist Government of February 10 regarding cessation of war with Central Powers and Turkey and general disbanding of army is bound to affect situation on Turkish front. Last instruction [Page 903] in reference [from] the Department of State was dated January 24, 11 a.m.1 Please telegraph only via India.

Smith
  1. Not printed.