867N.01/12–1944
Memorandum by the Director of the Office of Near Eastern and African Affairs (Murray) to the Secretary of State
Mr. Secretary: More than a week has passed since we issued our statement in connection with the Palestine Resolutions, and I believe that it is highly significant that this matter appears to have attracted comparatively little attention among the Zionists.
We have received only a few letters or telegrams in connection with our action, and I understand that the same is true of the Division of Public Liaison, which handles the “public comment” mail. The press coverage of the incident both here and in New York has also been fairly light, although there were a few critical articles as well as one [Page 652] cartoon in the New York Sun lampooning the Department for its attitude.
The most likely explanation for the comparative absence of adverse comment is undoubtedly the split within the Zionist leadership, notably the difference of opinion between Rabbi Wise and Rabbi Silver resulting in the resignation of the former [latter] as Co-Chairman of the American Zionist Emergency Council.
As far as the Arabs are concerned, we have had very little reaction to the postponement of the resolutions, although the Egyptian Minister did telephone to congratulate us on our action.