867N.01/5–449: Telegram
The Consul at Jerusalem (Burdett) to the Secretary of State
351. Abdullah Tel, commenting on Jewish attack near Beit Safafa, characterized it clear breach armistice and SC imposed truce. Asserted King and Transjordan Government most disturbed over precipitous action Jews when Transjordan had done everything possible meet Israeli demands. Explained Colonel Dayan after consulting Tel Aviv gave Legion “ultimatum” to withdraw from area allotted Jews by specified hour. Dayan offered delay operations only if Trans Jordan would immediately appoint new delegates to special committee arid convene committee night May 1 to complete discussion questions oil agenda. Amman refused appoint delegates immediately but gave Legion orders withdraw from area assigned Jews and take every precaution avoid incidents. Villagers resisted. Tel thought Jewish attack might be warning of what would happen in triangle if delay in timetable occurred. Was strongly critical of Arab delegates on special committee for accepting line giving areas inhabited by Arab villagers to Jews. Felt relinquishment of territory immediately after Egyptian withdrawal created especially unfavorable impression on Palestine Arabs. Said understood tentative agreement reached in special committee re Latrun and free access on Scopus and Bethlehem roads but position of Transjordan Government not yet known.
Sir Hugh Dow, British Consul General, wondered whether Jews seeking pretext seize additional territory. Felt action boded ill for turnover of section in triangle since Jews might claim Legion not able maintain order arid occupy large area. Reiterated his belief Israel so accustomed have its own way, concrete action as distinct from representations required before would cease efforts to expand.
Sent Department, repeated Amman.