501.BB Palestine/11–1948: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Acting Secretary of State
Delga 848. Following are comments Eban and Comay1 to Ross this morning on PGI response to SC resolutions of 4 and 16 November (texts sent Department Delga 839, November 19). Eban stressed the following five points:
- 1.
- Principal emphasis should be that there is no desire on part PGI to challenge authority of SC, but on contrary, emphasis should be placed on cooperation with the Council.
- 2.
- Main element of Israeli forces which have entered the Negev since October 14 are to be withdrawn.
- 3.
- Insofar as forces are not withdrawn from the coastal area the PGI is prepared to withdraw its forces north of Deir Suneid so that the Egyptians can advance to the line set by the mediator.
- 4.
- The appointment of officers in response to Bundle’s request indicates the willingness of the PGI to cooperate in working out any outstanding matters.
- 5.
- With reference to the November 16 resolution, Eban stressed acceptance by the PGI of principles contained this resolution.
Both Israeli representatives stressed that action taken required great deal of courage on part of PGI in view domestic situation Israel. They were encouraged in taking this step by fact that SC found it possible pass armistice resolution November 16 and by assurances compliance with Bunche program in Negev would not prejudice eventual territorial settlement.
Eban quoted Bunche as being very satisfied and stating he felt PGI action “most statesmanlike.” Bunche confirmed this view later in the day.
Beeley’s view (which he expressed at press conference today) was somewhat more cautious and marked by understatement. He told us he felt PGI’s action “a step in right direction.”
Jessup shares view that this action by PGI gets us over this difficult hurdle.
Sent Dept Delga 848; repeated London 1301.
- Michael Saul Comay, Member of the Israeli Delegation to the General Assembly.↩