890D.01/5–2445: Telegram
The Minister in Saudi Arabia (Eddy) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 25—5:07 p.m.]
218. ReLegs 212, May 21, 7 p.m. Second note from King Abdul Aziz received this hour to which he expects answer. Summary as follows:
French Levant trouble has reached crisis. Announced French policy violates independence and challenges all who support Syrian and Lebanese independence including USA, Britain and all Arab countries.
Limit has been reached. If French aggression continues Syrians will defend themselves but this defense can succeed only with help from US and Britain which recognized and supported their independence. Unless USA and Britain intervene the blemish and blame will fall upon all.
I request intervention by whatever means will effectively (1) prevent violence (2) oblige the French to withdraw such demands as violate independence (3) persuade the Syrians to seek peaceable solution.
This is the first test and the whole world is watching. I request the Allies to redeem the high principles they announced and the liberties for which they sacrificed life and property in the war.
Such intervention will maintain the honor of the Allies, the plighted word of Arab solidarity and the renown of the King Abdul Aziz, who continues to advise the Syrians to be calm, believing that after victory the Allies would see justice done to Syria and Lebanon.
Intervention is requested now.
Paraphrased to Arab capitals.