890D.00/2–949: Telegram
The Minister in Syria (Keeley) to the Secretary of State
51. [On?] February 8, 5 p. m. [, ?] Prime Minister Azm, continuing conversation reported mytel 50, 8th [9th],1 said Syrians recognize [Page 743] their destiny is linked up with that of western democracies and feeling they have something worthwhile to contribute in providing strategic base for defense against Communism, they wish cooperate realistically and in positive sense. Believing that Turkey could not defend itself if its rear were insecure, he wished secure latter but this could be brought about only if western democracies (among whom he specifically mentioned US, UK and France) recognizing danger that threatens and useful part Syria and other Arab countries could play give timely assistance. As Syria lacks means for her own defense and thus for defense of interests of democratic powers, he could only hope situation would be accurately appraised and assistance furnished while there is still time for envisaged collaboration to be effective.
Mentioning Arabian oil which he said could play important role if defended, he said Council Ministers had approved “Tapline” agreement and would shortly place it before Parliament for ratification. He regarded this approval as symbolic desire his government to follow henceforth positive policy looking toward economic development and defense his country in which he hoped US by reason of Tapline and recognition Syria’s strategic importance would take greater interest. Department pass Army.
Sent Department 51, repeated London 7, Paris 3, pouched Amman, Baghdad, Beirut, Cairo, Jerusalem, Jidda, Ankara and Moscow.
- Not printed; it reported the Prime Minister’s observations that “Syria desires facilitate Palestine Conciliation Commission’s task in a very proper way and hopes this new approach to Palestine problem will result in some satisfactory settlement more in keeping with principles of right and justice than has heretofore been evident. However, before agreeing undertake armistice discussions in response Acting Mediator Bunche’s invitation Syrian Government in agreement certain other Arab Governments … desires to have assurances Zionists will carry out UNSC resolutions, particularly those of November 4 and 16.” He then noted the repeated flouting of UN authority by the Zionists without incurring UN punitive measures or censure. Syria felt that as a prerequisite to undertaking armistice talks, the Zionists must give “guarantees” to carry out Security Council resolutions faithfully. The Prime Minister was said to have “evaded” Minister Keeley’s request for clarification of the guarantees sought. (501.BB Palestine/2–949)↩