Office of the Historian

890d.00/259: Telegram

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

[Paraphrase]
Beirut, November 16, 1925—7 p.m.
[Received November 17—1:41 a.m.]

Reference Paris Embassy’s telegram to Department November 13, noon.

1.
The Italian consul has repeatedly told me during the past 3 years that his Government had given him instructions to follow the policy here of the United States. At his request Italian ships were sent to Rhodes for purpose of protection. I am convinced they were not sent for political reasons.
2.
Colonel Foy, our military attaché at Constantinople, is due here on November 18. I repeat recommendation made in my telegram of November 7, 1 [2] p.m. When Colonel Foy arrives there will be a conference between him, Captain Fairfield, and Keeley, who temporarily is at Beirut.
3.
It would embarrass the French more to have the destroyers depart and return later than it would to have them remain here. Having the destroyers here gives a feeling of security to Americans, foreigners, and the natives … The continued presence of the destroyers is justified for that reason alone. On the other hand, people would become panicky should our destroyers be withdrawn now, and such action would be generally condemned.
4.
The arming of Christians throughout the Lebanon by the French has incensed the Moslems and Druses who are thus placed in potential danger. Thus a most critical situation has been created which may result in general religious warfare, especially throughout the Lebanon. … Moslem and Druse leaders have taken the initiative in arranging meetings with Christian leaders to keep the situation in control and prevent a religious war but their efforts may be rendered fruitless by the action of the French in arming the Christians. Claims and counterclaims are made, but I am convinced that the revolutionists have been, and are still, making every effort not to molest Christians and that the Christians are molested only when they oppose the advance of the revolutionists. Word has been sent to me by leading Moslems and Druses asking that the United States intervene to persuade the French to stop giving arms to Christians.
5.
Although the French announce re enforcements they have practically no troops for defense in the Lebanon at present.
6.
The Druses defeated a small French force yesterday and captured Mardayoim [Merjayoun].
7.
…
8.
Department’s attitude as given in its telegram of November 14, 8 p.m. is much appreciated. This telegram sent to Embassy at Paris and to Department.
Knabenshue