Office of the Historian

501.BC/8–1247: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Acting United States Representative at the United Nations (Johnson)

secret
us urgent
Washington, August 12, 1947—6 p. m.

346. Statements Egyptian and Brit reps in SC1 on Anglo-Egyptian controversy contain line of approach which may lead to further embitterment feelings both parties. This seemed particularly true Egyptian statement SC meeting Aug 11 which may provoke vigorous Brit reply (possibly including disparaging references Egyptian war effort etc). Statements this character however warranted they may be will not contribute willingness of parties accept formula for early disposition case and may have repercussions in Egypt. Dept hopes you can find opportunity informally to advise Brit and Egyptian reps our views this regard. As you know Sec Gen Arab League concerned lest present trend lead to impasse and anxious to minimize hostile feeling in Arab states toward US and UK which would follow SC decision against Egypt. Dept shares this view. In view of above Dept believes if opportunity should arise postponement SC meeting on case scheduled Aug 13 would be desirable to allow “cooling off” period of approximately one wk and time for action along lines Deptel 341 Aug 8. In event postponement August 13 meeting impossible Dept suggests you consider proposing or supporting motion at conclusion of meeting that proceedings be postponed for similar period.2

Marshall
  1. The U.S. Mission at the United Nations reported in telegram 728, August 12, that the British and Egyptian Representatives resumed debate “in lengthy refutations” on August 11 (501.BC/8–1247); for the official record of their remarks, see SC, 2nd yr., No. 13, pp. 1858, 1875.↩
  2. The Security Council continued to discuss the Egyptian case on August 13, hearing further statements by the British and Egyptian Representatives; for the official record of their remarks, see ibid., No. 75, pp. 1946, 1956. The Polish Representative began the general debate the same day, supporting the Egyptian demand for immediate, complete, and unconditional withdrawal of British troops from Egypt and the Sudan. He also stated that he had no suggestion for a solution of the status of the Sudan. The official record of his remarks is included ibid., p. 1961. The U.S. Representative made no proposals at the meeting of August 13; the next meeting of the Council did not take place until August 20.↩