891.00/1778: Telegram
The Minister in Iran (Dreyfus) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 21—10:30 a.m.]
158. The British Minister informs me that he and Soviet Ambassador have now received instructions from their Governments agreeing to succession of the new Shah43 to throne. This approval is contingent in both cases on Shah’s future good conduct. Iranian Government has been notified both of the approval and contingency on which it is placed.
The Majlis has expressed informal approval of the Cabinet and undoubtedly will give a vote of confidence when it is formally presented.
Shah has issued a firman which grants a general amnesty under existing law and promises special legislation for cases not covered by law. The former Acting War Minister44 (see my 13345) has already been released.
The ex-Shah is being held at Ispahan for negotiations as to disposition of his properties.
The Majlis has announced that it is taking steps to revise the laws on monopolies.
The British Consul at Tabriz informs his Legation that Russians there are giving at least sympathy to Armenians and others in separatist movements. It is significant in this regard that the Soviet Ambassador has recommended to Foreign Minister that new elections for the Majlis be held and that there should be a greater degree of local Government throughout Iran.
British Minister is pressing Iran Government to curtail or cancel pouch and telegraph privileges of the Japanese Legation which he has reason to believe are being abused to assist Axis Powers.