501.BB Palestine/6–4448: Telegram

The Vice Consul at Jerusalem (Burdett) to the Secretary of State

secret

913. During meeting with Count Bernadotte June 12, Dr. Joseph of Jewish Agency stated Jewish authorities unable assume responsibility for “dissident” elements in Jerusalem. Assured Bernadotte his representatives would receive every possible protection and assistance but with above reservations. At meeting June 13 with Truce Commission Joseph stressed importance of proper permits for observers and advisability their always being accompanied by Haganah officers while within Jewish areas. He again pointed out inability authorities to control Stern and Irgun effectively in Jerusalem.

[Here follows one paragraph dealing with the question of Soviet espionage activities in Palestine and Lebanon.]

Burdett