740.00/468: Telegram
The Chargé in Egypt (Merriam) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:50 a.m.]
74. Department’s circular September 27, 4 p.m. If Germany only were involved no serious problems would be likely to arise immediately. If Italy should fight on the side of Germany Egypt would probably be invaded from Libya. The chief towns and irrigation works as well as the canal would assumedly be bombed. Generally speaking the burden of defending Egypt would devolve upon the British forces.
Situation might develop whereby it would be unsafe to evacuate nationals by sea except on our warships or by land through Palestine owing to troubles there. Section of Egypt-Palestine railway is torn up at the moment.
Immediate problem would be to secure protection from gas and explosive bombs. It is practically certain that sufficient gas masks would not be available for the general population. Legation is instructing consular officers to obtain technical advice from appropriate authorities and to formulate plans offering the greatest possible protection to our citizens.
Legation would not be inclined to advise citizens to depart on commercial vessels until and unless this method of conveyance were found safe.
Commander of our squadron at Villefranche has been informed of the essentials in case question of evacuation should arise.