740.0011 European War 1939/11512: Telegram
The Minister Resident in Iraq (Knabenshue) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 31—8:55 p.m.]
125. Yesterday at 2:30 p.m. Mayor Baghdad telephoned informed me Gailani and Axis group had left Iraq and that he headed temporary Government to bring conflict to end. He invited chiefs diplomatic missions his office 3 o’clock. I went first accompanied by Commandant Police to see British Ambassador and thence with his Counsellor [Page 509] to the Mayor’s office. Also there was new Chief Staff and new Governor Baghdad Liwa who with Mayor formed Committee Three to negotiate terms peace. I accompanied Committee to discuss matter with Ambassador but did not take part general discussion only beforehand with Ambassador privately. Ambassador agreed communicate armistice proposal to commander British forces immediately. Gunfire audible late last night.
All radio sending sets returned to Embassy and Legation.
All Americans, British and others who took refuge at Legation are safe and well but still at Legation. Full reports covering interesting past months will follow.