Foreign Relations of the United States, 1948, The Near East, South Asia, and Africa, Volume V, Part 1

501.BC Kashmir/7–1448: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the United States Representative on the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan (Huddle), at New Delhi

secret

Washington, July 14, 1948—11 a. m.

430. Kascom 14.¹ Brit again fear India and Pakistan near open hostilities. UK cites following threatening factors:

(1) India has clear evidence presence regular Pakistan troops in Kashmir which have already clashed with Indian troops.

(2) India trying very hard improve military position before UN Commission enters Kashmir.

(3) India believes Pakistan plans air attack on Indian bases Kashmir.

(4) India may undertake military action against Hyderabad.

(5) RIAF may attempt intercept planes allegedly running arms between Pakistan and Hyderabad. In view foregoing Brit hope Commission will proceed Kashmir in immediate future without protracted discussions Delhi or Karachi and Dept also considers this advisable. Please report Commission’s plans.

Brit fear GOI may endeavor impose conditions on Commission’s entry into Kashmir. In latter connection Dept would welcome your evaluation present attitude GOI toward Commission.

Marshall

1. Telegram 14 to the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan. The Commission was at this time in New Delhi after a stop in Karachi from July 7 to 9.