891.00/11–344: Telegram
The Ambassador in Iran (Morris) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4:30 p.m.]
810. Political situation here shows signs of improvement largely because of indications Soviets may be relaxing pressure.
Although it is almost certain Tudeh leaders had been planning another demonstration here today they yesterday sent note to Prime Minister urging him to prevent any form of demonstration assenting [asserting] they had word Seyid Zia-ed-Din82 was plotting coup d’état. Simultaneously local Soviet military commander offered Iranian and British commanders his cooperation and assistance if requested in suppressing any disturbance.
Encouraged by this and by assurances of Majlis support Prime Minister Saed this morning told British Ambassador he would not resign immediately.
Sir Reader today read me British Foreign Office telegram of October 30 to Moscow pointing out methods used by Russians in seeking oil concession seemed out of line with policy set forth in Tehran Declaration regarding Iran and expressing hope Soviet Government would not press matter.
Iranian Government has not been informed of this communication nor have I mentioned Department’s similar telegram to Moscow.
Although it is still too early to say that there is a real change in Soviet attitude it is possible that American and British notes plus pro-Iranian publicity in London may have decided Russians to back water.
It may be significant that Soviet censors here yesterday passed Reuters despatch from London presenting Iranian side of controversy.
Sent to Department repeated to Moscow.
- Seyid Zia-ed-Din Tabatabai, Iranian Deputy in the Majlis.↩