Office of the Historian

867N.01/1–1149: Telegram

Mr. Wells Stabler to the Secretary of State

secret
Amman, January 11, 1949—6 p. m.

16. King indicated this morning that while Egypt–Israel talks going on at Rhodes, he does not propose make public fact that discussions now proceeding between Israeli and Transjordan representatives. Believed it preferable for Abdullah el Tel and Dayan to continue their talks in secrecy in order to determine area of agreement. King said his main points are:

(1)
Jews should not occupy territory between Transjordan and Egypt;
(2)
Gaza should belong to Transjordan;
(3)
Right of Arab refugees to go back to homes;
(4)
Return of Ramie and Lydda to Arabs;
(5)
Access for Arabs to Jaffa.

Re Jerusalem if internationalization not possible, King would be willing accept formula of autonomy under Transjordan administration of Arab areas, which he indicated should include Katamon and upper Bakaa, and autonomy under Israeli administration of Jewish areas. He would be prepared make concessions to Jews in southern potash works and guarantee protection. King reiterated his desire for peace and again expressed hope that Jews understood sincerity his intentions arrive at settlement. He reaffirmed full resolve negotiate peace but said it must be done slowly and carefully in order final result will “relieve me forever of Palestine headache”.

King remarked, with certain pride as if idea were original, that name of combined Transjordan and Arab Palestine would remain, “Hashemite Kingdom of the Jordan” (mytel 15 January 101). He made no comment about decree but it is understood it is now before Acting Prime Minister and Cabinet. No final decision taken and certain amendments are still being made.

Repeated Jerusalem as 11.

Stabler
  1. Not printed; it reported that King Abdullah had prepared a draft decree to grant Transjordanian nationality to Palestinian Arabs living in or moving to areas controlled by the Arab Legion arid desiring it. The draft decree also provided for abolition of frontier controls between Transjordan and areas under its administration. (867N.01/1–1049)↩