867N.01/2–1048: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Legation in Syria
20. During conversation in Dept today with Syrian Minister and Lebanese and Iraqi Chargés Henderson asked that they convey to their Govts immediately the serious concern aroused over reports that they were actively encouraging recruitment and training of armed bands on their territory for purpose of fighting in Palestine, and that such armed bands had actually entered Palestine and were participating in the disorders.
[Page 617]Henderson urged in interests of Arab States and peoples themselves and of security in Middle East and of world peace that their Govts not permit further contingents to enter Palestine from their territories and that contingents which might possibly be in Palestine be withdrawn: He pointed out that the three countries were laying themselves open to most serious charges of aggression before United Nations and that if they persisted in this course processes might well be set in motion which would render it extremely difficult to find peaceable and constructive way out of difficult situation now existing in Middle East.
He asked that they urge upon their Govts desirability taking measures to insure that neither arms nor armed men be permitted to cross their frontiers into or en route to Palestine, and that they permit no other acts which might be considered as constituting armed attacks, aggression or threats of aggression.
Above is for your own background and not to be divulged to anyone. You may however, your discretion, take similar line in discussions relating Palestine which may take place between you and responsible local officials.
Sent Damascus, repeated Baghdad, Beirut, Jerusalem, Cairo, Jidda.