Foreign Relations of the United States, 1948, The Near East, South Asia, and Africa, Volume V, Part 2

867N.01/11–1048: Telegram

Mr. Wells Stabler to the Acting Secretary of State

secret

Amman, November 10, 1948—9 a. m.

113. During conversation evening November 9 with Abdel Moneim Bey Rifai, former Under Secretary Foreign Office and presently King’s confidant, following obtained:

1. On November 3 King sent special message to Farouk informing him of desire many Palestine Arabs to end war and reach settlement and of his belief that matter should be seriously considered. Abdullah added he, however, unable take such step alone and wished consult his colleagues. No reply yet received and HM much disappointed. Message believed ill advised and premature as it provides weapon against Transjordan if Egypt and other states choose use it as such.

2. Transjordan delegation to Cairo meeting Arab League Political Committee (mytel 107, November 6¹) had received instructions to explore, without committing itself, attitude Arab delegates towards settlement. Delegation has instead followed lead other Arab states and is reconsidering question unified command Arab armies. On November 7 King received telegram from delegation requesting him send Cairo two senior Arab Legion officers. King apparently annoyed by disobedience his instructions but nonetheless has sent officers.

3. Likely that Political Committee will decide on appointment Egyptian general as supreme commander Arab armies, although Egypt has lost all right that position. Also probable that commander will order Arab Legion to advance in support other armies. However, Legion unable take offensive and order will be disregarded. In such event, Transjordan will again be called “traitor” and will once more take blame for Arab failure.

4. Although Prime Minister willing resign in order new government may commence negotiations, King feels nothing will be achieved such resignation unless all Arab governments resign at same time.

5. King has sent his private secretary, Abdel Ghani Bey Karmi, to Paris and London with instructions to Prince Abdel Majid Haidar re contact with Jews and outline King’s views on possible settlement. Latter includes Jaffa, Lydda, Ramale, parts Beisan area and most Negev for Arabs.²

6. When Belgian Consul General met with King October 17 Abdel Moneim Bey acting as interpreter. Initiative re talks with Jews in Paris was taken by Belgian and not by King. Views to be presented were along lines mytel 86, October 21.

Department pass Gadel 11.

Stabler

1. Not printed.
2. Mr. Stabler, in telegram 114, November 11, reported that the King had sent Abdel Ghani Bey Karmi to Paris and London at the request of the Israelis and that this effort was quite distinct from that involving the message sent to Prince Abdel Majid Haidar as set forth in paragraph numbered 5 of telegram 112, November 9, p. 1556 (867N.01/11–1148).