501.BB Palestine/2–1849: Telegram
The United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin) to the Secretary of State
priority
203. Confirming telephone call to McClintock, Reedman (secretariat) telephoned to report on cable received from Bunche this morning as follows.
Bunche would deeply appreciate any possible assistance he might be given on following issue.
Only remaining issue in current Rhodes discussions is Beersheba. Egyptians are pressing for withdrawal all Israeli forces from the town. They are not however pressing for withdrawal of Israeli forces from surrounding area. Bunche describes Egyptian motive as political rather than military. Egyptians argue (a) there must be some recognition by Israelis of November 4 resolution, (b) Beersheba is an Arab town and (c) Beersheba is included in territory allotted to Arab state by November 29 resolution.
Israeli negotiators are adamant in refusal to enter into any formal agreement to withdraw from town. They have informed Bunche, however, that they are in fact building camps outside the town. It might be inferred from this information that Israelis plan informally to withdraw their forces.
Bunche comments that while Egyptian position is perhaps technically correct he feels they would be making great mistake to stick to their present line, particularly in view of safeguard provision in armistice agreement protecting any political rights or claims. Bunche [Page 756] goes on to comment that Beersheba is more of an issue between the SC and Israel than between Egypt and Israel if it is an issue at all.
In response Reedman inquiry whether USG might take some action this point, Ross suggested (and subsequently confirmed suggestions after discussion McClintock) that best procedure at this juncture would be for SYG to see Fawzi and Eban here.
Text Bunche cable will be sent Department soon as received.