891.00/12–2745: Telegram
The Vice Consul at Tabriz (Rossow) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 29—6:22 a.m.]
12. Fighting in Azerbaijan ceased last week with fall of Rezaieh, with Democrats in full control throughout.
Earlier fervid protestations of Azerbaijan’s desire to remain within Iranian nation now replaced with open threats of declaration outright independence if demands are not met by Tehran Govt. Most acute issue is payment by Tehran of salaries of their former employees now absorbed by local govt. No definite action will be taken, however, till results of Moscow Conference are known and Tehran’s intentions clearer. Will report further after Saturday conference with Peshavari, the local Prime Minister.
Tehran Govt must realize danger of giving Azerbaijan even nominal excuse for independence, which would play directly into Soviet hands. Soviet Consul General showed great happiness yesterday over recent events referring to Tabriz as “a new national capital.”
Please inform me of all Tehran measures to mollify Azerbaijan.
Sent Dept as 12; Tehran as 32.