867N.01/1005: Telegram
The Consul General at Jerusalem (Wadsworth) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 14—11 a.m.]
Initial local reaction to last week’s White Paper on Palestine was generally that while it purported to dispel uncertainty the only certainty which emerged was that uncertainty would continue, both Jews and Arabs reading into it confirmation of their respective apprehensions and emphasizing adverse effect on already depressed economic situation.
Arab leaders continue to reject partition arguing any form thereof is both inequitable and impracticable. Majority of Palestine Jews would welcome decision definitely adopting tripartite partition; all want immigration reestablished on economic absorptive capacity basis. Polish Consul General informs me confidentially Weizmann14 in long conversation last Monday expressed firm conviction both will be forthcoming “before the end of the year”.
2. Highest British officials, Treasurer and Attorney General, discount rumors of British Cabinet dissension and see in projected course of action reaffirmation of partition policy which they approve in principle and believe practicable. General opinion in British local circles while differing widely as to practicability of partition continues to view it as only way out except in unlikely event Jews and Arabs agree on alternative solution.
Although public security has not been materially affected and authorities express confidence countermeasures will continue to confine Arab violence to isolated acts, I am disturbed by killing British archaeologist Starkey last Monday and informally advised Americans against travel during late afternoon and night.
- Chaim Weizmann, President of the World Zionist Organization.↩