761.91/9–1945: Telegram

The Ambassador in Iran ( Murray ) to the Secretary of State

746. Schwarzkopf says gendarme commander Tabriz District reports constant and increasing interference by Soviet Military Commander who insists no gendarmes may be moved without his advance [Page 413] permission. Soviet Commander further issues directions as to placement and replacement of gendarmes, has ordered gendarmerie to collect arms previously distributed by Iranian Army to some 1,200 civilians in Azerbaijan and has prevented recruiting of detachment of 200 Kurdish gendarmes which had been requested by group of 9 Kurdish chiefs. This interference is aggravated by fact he reportedly ignores Iranian administrative organization and demands action by gendarmerie which should be handled by army or other branch of Government.

According to Schwarzkopf only explanation ever offered by Russians for interference with gendarmes is that latter create trouble by attempting to suppress popular demonstrations.

Iranian Deputy Chief of Staff has told Baker that Iranian army commander at Maragheh declared martial law in town but was informed by Russian Army Commander that he had no authority to do so and his proclamation would not be recognized. Russians thereupon proclaimed martial law themselves.

Sent to Department, repeated London 62, Moscow 235, Tabriz 37.

Murray