791.003/13: Telegram
The Minister in Persia (Philip) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 13—6:40 p.m.]
27. Referring Department’s 18, May 12. AH powers enjoying most-favored-nation rights under treaties which may be abrogated by year’s notice have received similar notes. Treaties with Spain and France are “in perpetuity”, but on ground that perpetual treaties may be denounced at any time by either party the Persian Government has given notice of intention to terminate these also on May 10, 1928. On May 12 a communication to the British Legation contained a notification that foreign subjects in Persia will cease to enjoy consular jurisdiction and other privileges after May 10, 1928, and that after that date such privileges will be denied those governments claiming them on most-favored-nation principle.
I was informed by Acting Foreign Minister that many persons in Persia have demanded of the Government greater expedition in denouncing treaties, but that Government is resolved to adhere to a friendly and considerate course, and that in particular it looks for sympathetic assent from the United States, and hopes also that the United States will be the first to help Persia to deliver herself from grievous disabilities.
Representatives of other powers here appear to accept situation philosophically while awaiting instructions. They seem uncertain whether Persian Government is legally within rights in denouncing treaties with France and Spain. British Minister acknowledges sympathy with attitude of Persians, but doubts if course they have taken is entirely correct or will in the end succeed. Today at meeting of the diplomatic body the unanimous decision was taken to submit to our Governments identical recommendations regarding acknowledgment of note of May 10.32 Suggested form of acknowledgment will be forwarded tomorrow.
A very favorable impression would, of course, be produced in Persia if our Government should announce at once by cable a sympathetic attitude toward present situation. Denunciation of our treaty has been legal. But it should also be borne in mind that the impending withdrawal of consular jurisdiction will be a grave disadvantage to foreigners so long as there is a want of efficient courts and modern codes in Persia.
Affairs remain otherwise as usual.