501.BB Palestine/5–1349: Telegram
The Minister in Syria (Keeley) to the Secretary of State
niact
priority
281. General Riley informs me proposal set forth in Deptel 209 May 12, is no longer valid and that modification thereof already before delegations. At today’s meeting Israeli delegate requested interpretation certain Aspects current proposal before considering it and is presently seeking instructions Tel Aviv. In circumstances General Riley feels it would serve no useful purpose for me make representations indicated by Department; on contrary that such representations might well confuse situation.
Next meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 17, when it is hoped modified proposal will be discussed in joint session.
General Riley suggests and I agree that I be authorized to support with Syrians, at moment we may jointly consider appropriate, whatever compromise seems fairly to safeguard interests both parties. Legation representations in support of Israeli-weighted proposal in sense penultimate paragraph Deptel 209 can only have stiffening effect.
Syria long ago became accustomed to its inability obtain justice in SC. For US to remind Syria that this situation likely to continue if she fails accept Israeli armistice terms will not. I feel sure, be persuasive, particularly in light of favor currently being shown Israel by US re Israel’s acceptance as UN member despite her continued disregard of resolution of December 11 and her failure otherwise fully to live up to standards of UN Charter.
Sent Department; repeated Tel Aviv 30. Department pass USUN New York 5. Pouched Amman, Baghdad, Beirut, Cairo, Jerusalem, Jidda, London, Paris, and Ankara.