891.00/1795: Telegram
The Minister in Iran (Dreyfus) to the Secretary of State
[Received 1:47 p.m.]
187. With reference to the Department’s 104,59 there has been improvement in the situation in the north of Iran. The Soviet authorities have prevented further meetings of Armenian separatists; relative free road communication between important cities has been reestablished; the British Minister reports better cooperation on the part of the Soviet authorities in transportation matters; the British Consul at Tabriz reports an improvement in the general conduct of the Russians; and the Foreign Minister informs me the Iranian police are being rearmed. In addition, the British Minister advises me confidentially that the forces occupying Tehran will be withdrawn, a fact which when made known will have a favorable effect.
This improvement may be attributed to representations made by the British and American Governments. My opinion, however, is that reports of substantial improvements in situation should be accepted with reserve. Russians continue to spread Communist propaganda as for example the following was printed on a Soviet invitation to sporting events held yesterday in Tehran “Proletariat of all countries unite”. Foreign Minister informs me that an article in Ettelaat of October 9 which described the Soviet occupation of Iranian towns in the most favorable light was published under pressure from the Soviet Ambassador.
The above was written before receipt of Department’s No. 109, October 11. Moose is leaving at once.