891.20/4–2049: Telegram
The Ambassador in Iran (Wiley) to the Secretary of State
priority
523. Reference Deptel 347, April 18, 4 p. m. As Department knows from previous reports both Shah and Chief of Staff have been greatly agitated over American aid to Turkey.… US “token” aid to Iran, while more ample aid is extended to Turkey, will under any circumstances be viewed here with very jaundiced eye. Also “token” aid to Iran, while irritating Iranians, will still be provocative to USSR. Though I completely understand considerations behind decision re Iran, I am very much afraid our relations here will be made difficult.
I therefore think that the answers to paragraphs a and b should definitely be negative and that decision may be deferred with regard to paragraph c.
However, language of authorization bill should permit military aid to Iran and other countries desired but without specific mention in bill or hearings thereon of countries other than those North Atlantic Pact, Greece, and Turkey. It is hoped this may be possible since sum proposed aid to Iran is not large.
It is realized “token” aid to Iran must eventually come out in open but there is no advantage in hastening that unhappy day.
ArMish, GenMish and service attachés concur in foregoing.