740.0011 European War 1939/4557: Telegram
The Consul General at Beirut (Palmer) to the Secretary of State
[Received 2:30 p.m.]
51. Reference Department’s telegram No. 36, and my telegram No. 50. Strict compliance with orders of Pétain Government on the part of the naval authorities here is in complete accord with the attitude of General Massiet and High Commissioner Puaux, both of whom have expressed themselves as determined to maintain order within the country and to use all the means at their disposal to prevent disturbances of whatever nature or origin.
While they have not publicly voiced their apprehension as to foreign influences or aggression they have privately expressed satisfaction over the reassuring attitude of Turkey and Iraq toward Syria and are apparently hopeful of combating Italian and German propaganda and that the question of direct intervention here on the part of Germany or Italy will not arise.
They appear to be most concerned over the probability of subversive activities on the part of British agents in Syria and the possibility of British military action from Palestine with the excuse of alleged necessity for maintaining order in the adjoining territory. But the High Commissioner and the British Consul General have both categorically contradicted the rumor from abroad that there has been fighting on the Syrian-Palestine border and each has assured me that his Government not only desires to avoid open conflict here but also is prepared to cooperate in the maintenance of normal relations in this area; in which connection the British Consul General has let it be understood that British funds might be made available if necessary to meet local financial and economic requirements.
It is understood that Weygand whose influence here is still great, continues to manifest a particular interest in the Near East; but rumors of his presence here at various times since the armistice have been in informal conversation denied by the authorities and persons who have claimed to have seen him in Syria have been discredited.