891.51A/2–845: Telegram

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

79. Following message from Millspaugh is transmitted at his urgent request for attention of Secretary and Wallace Murray:18

“It has been understood that the Department is interested in extending assistance to Iran through American missions equipped to function effectively. If this understanding is still permissible it would seem to be extremely advisable to take the necessary measures to maintain the status quo and to prevent serious changes to and in the mission until the new Ambassador19 has had time to study the situation. If it is desired to alter the legal basis, the set-up or the composition of [the Mission, such alterations] will be difficult to introduce or control when the mission has already lost its authority, prestige and unity. The situation of the mission has now reached a critical and perhaps final stage. As conditions for my staying I asked the Iranian Government to take certain actions and to give assurances regarding its policies and attitudes in the future. These proposals have been rejected. I consider them essential to the future prestige and success of the mission. If the Iranian Government does not change its stand I can see no possibility or use of our remaining. [Page 547] It is barely possible that a satisfactory adjustment permitting the reestablishment of the mission at least temporarily may be reflected through a change of cabinet or by action of the Majlis. But without strong representations by the American Government a temporary adjustment is improbable. Will the Department make such representations? This information is essential for determining my future action and should in all events reach me within 10 days. If I am not informed, I shall be compelled to assume that the question of my leaving or remaining with its important bearing on the future of the mission, is not considered to be any longer a matter of interest to the Department.”20

Morris
  1. Director of the Office of Near Eastern and African Affairs.
  2. Wallace Murray was appointed Ambassador to Iran on February 20, 1945, but did not present his credentials and assume charge of the Embassy until June 5.
  3. In telegram 82, February 9, 1945, 9 a.m., the Ambassador in Iran stated; “I do not share the view implied in Millspaugh’s message that a change in Cabinet or Majlis action may improve his position. A Cabinet change is improbable and in any case it is most doubtful that new Cabinet would be more favorably disposed. Majlis now appears definitely hostile.” (891.51 A/2–945)