867N.01/12–1449: Telegram
The Ambassador in Israel (McDonald) to the Secretary of State
priority
885. Comment on Embtel 882 December 13:1 Eytan’s prognostications given me December 12 (Embtel 8802) that Prime Minister’s speech would contain “no inflammatory statements” hardly borne out [Page 1542] in such remarks as these: “Decision is utterly incapable of implementation if only for the determined unalterable opposition of the inhabitants of Jerusalem themselves”; and “We are continuing with the transfer of the government to Jerusalem and hope to complete it as soon as possible”; and “There is nothing now to prevent Knesset from returning to Jerusalem. We propose that you take a decision to this effect”.
These statements obviously made (1) to forestall more drastic demands by government’s violently outspoken rightwing critics such as Herut and (2) to confound Communists and leftist Mapam elements supporting or apologizing for USSR stand on internationalization. Ben-Gurion evidently confident of instant favorable reaction of Israel to his bold directive.
Embassy observer present during speech and subsequent Knesset debate reports proceedings generally quiet and orderly with only applause coming final announcement by speaker that “after Hanukka recess” Knesset meetings will be held Jerusalem. End comment.
Sent Department 885, repeated Baghdad 47, Beirut 83, Damascus 62, Jerusalem 103, Jidda 37. Department pass Amman 68, Cairo 77, London 147.