891.24/3–347: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Iran
101. Schwarzkopf1 has informed War [Department that] Gendarmerie needs half million worth equipment and expressed dissatisfaction exclusion Gendarmerie from benefits pending arms arrangement. As indicated Deptel 37 Jan 232 we have assumed purchase [Page 899] program makes provision for both branches Iranian security force. Ref Schwarzkopf’s letter to Pottenger Dec 28, it appears present Army plan represents continuance effort absorb Gendarmerie and should be considered in light traditional conflict between Army and Gendarmerie. We wish make clear we using no pressure Iran take US arms and taking no sides in Army—Gendarmerie situation. However, Army action absorb Gendarmerie or eliminate Gendarmerie from arms program might bring about situation wherein continuance Gendarmerie Mission would be inadvisable. While we do not wish inject ourselves into entirely internal Iranian affair, decision being for Iran Govt alone, you may if appropriate point out that general experience in this and most democratic countries has proved desirability keeping police forces under civilian control.
Please discuss matter with Schwarzkopf then with Grow.3 You may, in your discretion, bring matter to attention Qavam and Shah.4
- Brig. Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf, Chief of the American Military Mission with the Iranian Gendarmerie.↩
- Not printed.↩
- Brig. Gen. Robert W. Grow, Chief of the American Military Mission with the Iranian Army.↩
- In telegram 283, April 16, the Embassy in Tehran reported the assurances given to General Schwarzkopf by the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance that the U.S. credit would be used to purchase supplies for the Gendarmerie (891.24/4–1647).↩