740.0011 European War 1939/24704: Telegram
The Minister in Iran (Dreyfus) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 7—12:39 p.m.]
313. There are numerous indications of improvement in Iranian-Soviet relations. Russian Ambassador on return from Moscow few days ago brought to Iranian Government formal expression of Soviet friendship and assurances of respect for Iranian’s independence and territorial integrity. Ambassador informed me personally that this represents the policy of his Government and that outstanding problems between Iran and Russia have been satisfactorily settled. As indicated in my No. 302, September 28, Soviets are now urging Iranians to send troops to Tabriz. Ahy, now Iranian Ambassador to Russia was as mark of courtesy received few days ago by Stalin. Foreign Minister76 2 days ago confirmed to me personally this improvement in relations with Russia and expressed his satisfaction at better attitude displayed by Soviets.
On other hand there are many indications of further deteriorations in Iranian-British relations. British have further alienated and [Page 325] embittered Iranians by constant interference in internal affairs, pressure in such matters as arrest of pro-Axis suspects, demands for purchase of potatoes and other crops and intransigent and disagreeable manner of negotiating. Both Prime77 and Foreign Ministers in recent conversations have complained to me in bitter terms of general British attitude toward Iran. Foreign Minister aptly summed up Iranian view in following words “The British are pillaging us.”