393.0015/11–348: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Consul at Geneva (Troutman)
1511. For Tuck2 from Saltzman.3 On basis current reports from US missions China, Dept seriously concerned re increasing threat 5000 Jewish, 8000 White Russian and 40 Polish refugees in Shanghai all considered eligible IRO protection and assistance. Strongly urge IRO take all possible emergency action evacuate all eligible IRO refugees soonest either to temporary or permanent places refuge.
Dept advised Israel has offered asylum 5000 IRO eligible Jewish refugees and is attempting arrange issuance visas this group at Shanghai. Can IRO provide shipping Israel visa holders and if so for what numbers and on what dates? In this connection Dept suggests possibility ships in Australian run may pick up Jewish refugees Shanghai on return voyage from Australia.
No permanent haven presently in sight for White Russian and Polish refugees Shanghai. Dept exploring all possibilities temporary haven these groups. Is IRO prepared provide interim assistance these groups at such places temporary refuge as may be found? Your comments and advice as to IRO plans urgently requested. [Saltzman.]