501.BB Palestine/11–948: Telegram
The Consul at Jerusalem (Burdett) to the Acting Secretary of State
1468. French Consul General Neuville and I, representing Truce Commission, yesterday visited Arab Jerusalem. Discussed alleged Jewish Arab talks, military position Arabs and demilitarized Jerusalem. Abdullah El Tel, military governor Arab Jerusalem stated flatly no military accord exists between Arab Legion and Jewish military forces Jerusalem. Consul General believes statement and although without information military governor felt informal political talks between either Transjordan or Egypt and PGI possible. He asserted Palestine Arabs discouraged and asking King Abdullah settle issue any way sees fit. Willingness admit possibility talks reflects extent Arab disillusionment. British Consul General stated had no information re Arab talks with Jews and that conversations with Egypt more likely at present than with Abdullah.
Rumors direct negotiations still appear prominently in local Jewish press. Apparently encouraged by PGI perhaps to sow further dissension among Arab states. Reliable American correspondent states good source informs dispute in progress within Israeli Government over whether initiate talks with Transjordan or Egypt. Mapam favors Egypt claiming Abdullah British puppet and Egypt only independent Arab nation. Mapai favor Abdullah since considered more reliable and realistic. Consul General unable find evidence Jerusalem for believing other than informal talks now in progress between Jews and either Abdullah or Egypt probably at Paris. All Arab rulers reluctant make first open move for fear being branded traitor. All seeking face saving device which talks through United Nations might provide.
Abdullah El Tel described Arab military situation as “desperate”. Although maintained Arab Legion would fight fiercely if attacked, admitted little chance success. Stated had hoped Egyptians would at least hold their positions but just ran (Jewish press today reports Egyptians evacuating Gaza). Claimed Iraqis did well in battle Jenin but doubt can withstand Jewish assault. Startling change evident in Arab attitude from cockiness displayed before Negev offensive to present willingness face facts, admit own military impotence and seek end conflict.
Arab eagerly inquired when Truce Commission would present plan for demilitarization Jerusalem. Even described demilitarization as “only hope”. Dislike provisions permitting Jews retain normally Arab quarters now held but acceptance proposals as whole most likely.
From information available here Consul General feels recent Jewish offensives changed conflict from one between Arabs and Jews to one between United Nations and Jews. Arabs tacitly admit and Consul [Page 1559] General fully concurs Jews can do what they wish militarily. Question becomes what will United Nations allow and what measures will use enforce decisions. Arabs realize clearly dependence on United Nations and hope for some face saving exit. Solution must take account necessity salvaging United Nations as well as Arab prestige.
Sent Department 1468; Department pass Paris for Gadel 7, Cairo 135; repeated Baghdad 25, Beirut 93, Damascus 44; pouched Jidda, Amman.