891.00/12–245: Telegram

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

1038. Captain Gagarine returned yesterday from trip by car to Tabriz and reports adherents of “Democratic Party” in full control roads and towns including Zenjan between Qazvin and point 40 miles southeast Tabriz. He saw many “Democrats” (identified by special armband) in Qazvin itself and some he talked to said they would probably take over city today.

Being taken for Russian officer, Gagarine had little difficulty at Democrat road posts but says they exercise strict control over all traffic except Soviet military.

He found elections for local legislature in progress at Tabriz and Quenjan [Zenjan?] with no attempt by Iran Govt authorities to interfere.

Democrats actively recruiting. Most of people to whom Gagarine talked, including party members themselves, said majority members joined only through fear. Mayor of Mianeh, who was obviously afraid for his life, said he regretted having joined but saw no other course.

Saw no evidence open Soviet intervention but Russians he talked to all clearly favored Democrats and latter obviously regarded Russians as their friends. Many party members spoke Russian. (See Military Attaché telegram No. M60457 December 1 to Military Intelligence Service85 for further details Gagarine trip.)

Iranian column was still halted east of Qazvin yesterday and was alerted against possible Democrat attack.

Sent Dept as 1038; repeated Moscow as 305, London as 107.

Murray
  1. Copy not found in Department files.