867n.404Wailing Wall/190: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Jerusalem (Knabenshue)
For your information and for use in the event that inaccurate reports are circulated in the press or elsewhere, the following remarks were made today by the Secretary in replying to a delegation of American citizens representing the Palestine National League, the New Syria Party and the Young Men’s Moslem Society which called to express their views concerning the claims of Arab nationalism and the future of Palestine:
“I am glad of an opportunity to speak with you concerning the tragic events which have been taking place in Palestine. I am confident that you share the deep regret which is felt by this Government and by all American citizens at the loss of life and the suffering which have accompanied those events. I am gratified to note that order is being rapidly and completely restored, and while it would not be proper for me to comment upon the views which you have set forth concerning the future of Palestine, it is entirely fitting that I should emphasize my conviction that the cause of civilization, the cause of better understanding among peoples of different races and religions is never served by violence and recrimination. It is my earnest hope that, as soon as order has been fully restored, the competent and responsible authorities animated by a sincere desire to do justice to all parties concerned, will be able to bring about peace and cooperation. If your Delegation can play a part in emphasizing those qualities of moderation and thoughtfulness which are so needed in any approach to the present problems of Palestine, you will have served an eminently useful and an eminently American purpose.”