890D.01/5–2445: Telegram
The Syrian Minister for Foreign Affairs ( Mardam ) to President Truman 37
Syrian Government handed your Minister Damascus copy French aide-mémoire formulating demands absolutely incompatible Syrian sovereignty independence as well as copy note in reply Syrian Government protesting against influx French troops and refusing any discussion on bases. Aide-mémoire your Government had recognized Syrian independence and excluded granting any privilege. Now France asks privileges infringing on independence and legitimate rights Syria. Anxious to maintain order Near East and not to have recourse to extreme measures of nature to open new phases of bloody hostilities after end of war in Europe Syrian Government solicits use of your benevolent intervention in order to induce France to withdraw troops and respect Syrian sovereignty.