867N.01/11–1247: Telegram
The Chargé in the United Kingdom (Gallman) to the Secretary of State
6005. Linton of JA advised Embassy November 10 that on behalf of JA he had recently protested strongly to Colonial Office re use Arab Legion in Palestine pointing out to ColOff that this was provocative step inviting trouble with Jewish farmers who know that 4,000-man Arab Legion is only well-trained and disciplined Arab body in area.
2. Linton said he was more concerned than ever (Embassy’s 5489 October 101) re manner in which British Government would withdraw. He had gathered at ColOff that its officials are disinclined to leave anarchy behind them but on other hand there had been some loose talk in this regard by Palestine Government officials. Linton thought HMG still hopes that Arabs and Jews may reach agreement and that in consequence HMG can stay in Palestine. If so, Linton said “HMG is very wrong”.
3. Linton did not believe that boycott or other economic measures taken against Jewish state by Arab state with support other Arab governments would be effective because “JA has right to ask Jewish communities all over world to finance settlement of million new Jews in Palestine” and with gift dollars from these communities Jewish state at worst could for years be largely independent of its surroundings. However, Jews will make every effort to develop close economic relations with Arabs.
- Not printed; it reported Mr. Linton’s deep concern over the possibility that “British troops will withdraw first from Arab area toward Palestine ports thus giving Arabs opportunity consolidate their positions in vacated area with result Haganah will have to fight its way back into this area. Manner of withdrawal will be of great significance to Jews according Linton who has heard rumors effect that British are planning withdrawal to favor Arabs.” (867N.01/10–1047)↩