Office of the Historian

867N.01/10–2148: Telegram

Mr. Wells Stabler to the Acting Secretary of State

secret
Amman, October 21, 1948—3 p. m.

86. During talk with King this morning he said he most anxious following views be conveyed to Jews:

1.
Prior May 14 he had favored partition and had informally undertaken with Jews to occupy Arab areas of Palestine only, provided Jews remained in their areas.
2.
Massacre at Deir Yassin and other provocations had incited all Arabs including himself, and he had entered war with serious intent which he still holds. Arab Legion alone among Arab armies still strong.
3.
However he now desires restoration peace and understanding [Page 1502] with Jews with whom he believes he could have close relations. He realizes Jews and Arabs can only live peacefully in separate areas with defined boundaries.
4.
Palestine question now under jurisdiction and discussion UNGA and all parties must contribute to finding solution in that body.
5.
In meantime he hopes Jews will appreciate his sincere desire find solution and refrain from attacking Arab Legion and areas occupied by them. Such attacks merely incite further animosity and delay settlement.
6.
On his side King has given strict orders Arab Legion must respect truce and must not attack unless attacked. He believes his orders are being obeyed.
[7.]
King said except for contact with Jews through Prince Abdel Majid Haidar, Transjordan Minister to London, and Sassoon of Israeli Foreign Office, he had not requested anybody previously to convey his views to Jews.

Informed King his comments would be reported to Department for whatever action it deemed fit. Indicated it doubtful US Government would consider such approach to Jews desirable, appropriate or helpful while entire question being considered by UNGA. In any event believed USA would probably not wish act as intermediary.

Would appreciate any guidance Department desires give as King will undoubtedly inquire re status matter in near future.1

Stabler
  1. The Department, on October 23, transmitted the text of telegram 86 to the Secretary of State and Mr. Rusk at Paris, adding the following comment: “We are inclined question advisability US authorities communicating above views of Abdullah to Israelis. However, we consider GADel to be in best position make final decision. Suggest that if you believe advisable convey views to Israelis this be done via Shertok in Paris and not thru authorities Tel Aviv. Pls advise in order Dept may inform Stabler.” (Telegram Gadel 291, 867N.01/10–2148)↩