890F.248/7–845: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Minister in Saudi Arabia (Eddy)
198. Dhahran’s 35 July 4 and Jidda’s 258 July 8,60 King’s decision re Connor Mission proposals surprising in view his repeated requests that US Army build roads and train Saudi pilots. The King’s fear of adverse reaction within his country is appreciated but not considered sufficient reason inasmuch as the King has for over 2 years pressed this Govt to have the US Army provide services that he now rejects. Furthermore since Army is only American agency equipped to render these services free of charge King is in effect turning down American aid. This is reversal of policy that apparently can be explained only in terms of British pressure.
What effect will cancellation of this aid have on the stability of Saudi Govt and thus on security of American interests? Who for example will physically operate Dhahran airfield when Saudis take title at end of Japanese war? Cancellation of Connor Mission means Saudi pilots and technicians will not be trained to take over field. Saudi Govt will have to rely on foreign technicians and the US Govt might build an airfield in center of great American oil reserves only to find it controlled and operated by some nation other than Saudi Arabia. Further what assurances do we have that present or future Saudi Govts can maintain order if roads are not built or air force and Army are not improved?
Your detailed report awaited with interest. If report does not cover points raised above particularly giving evidence of Brit maneuvering cable further info.
[Page 929]Meanwhile Gen Giles and yourself should not hold projected conference with Saudi officials re airfield pending further instructions. …
- Latter not printed.↩