Office of the Historian

890d.00/257: Telegram

The Consul at Beirut (Knabenshue) to the Secretary of State

Beirut, November 15, 1925—11 p.m.
[Received November 16—3:20 a.m.]

Department’s telegram of November 14, 8 a.m. [p.m.] As a result of Druse advance into Lebanon, French are arming native Christians and inciting them to assist in repelling invaders. This act it is generally believed will probably bring about a religious war, chiefly between the Druse[s] and Marmorites [Maronites] in the Lebanon, and may result in other religious factions entering strife. Destroyers must remain until situation clears. Fuller details tomorrow.

Also sent to Embassy at Paris.

Knabenshue