891.24/186: Telegram
The Minister in Iran (Dreyfus) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 4—10:51 a.m.]
140. Prime Minister’s announcement yesterday of extension of lend-lease aid to Iran made in a speech to Majlis was extremely well received by Deputies and public. He began his speech by saying that United States long in cordial relations with Iran has once again given practical demonstration of its good intentions toward this country. American advisers, he said, have rendered brilliant services to Iran, mentioning specifically those in fields of education and health. Iranians have responded to taxes [these?] high and disinterested services with similar feelings toward United States and have tried to follow American example in order to improve internal organization of their country. He ended by saying he was sure the Deputies and all persons interested in Iran’s welfare will welcome this good news which is sure to have important repercussions in economic affairs of Iran interrupted by frequent and enthusiastic cheers from Deputies.
Extension of lease-lend aid should serve to strengthen our already cordial relations with Iran. However, actual harm may result if there is much delay in supplying Iran with much needed goods.