501.BB Palestine/5–1949: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Legation in Switzerland 1
secret
Washington, May
19, 1949—1 p. m.
652. Unpal 106. For Ethridge. Fol are comments on your numbered paras Palun 151:2
- 1.
- On McGhee’s return neither French nor Turkish Embs had reed instrs re discussions with Dept on Pal refugee program as agreed with PCC at Beirut. Moreover, until decision made re US financial support for program Dept has desired proceed cautiously. Preliminary mtg was held May 9 with Benard of Fr Emb, which had in meantime recd instr to meet with Dept but had reed no substantive instrs. Benard raised no issues re proposed plan of action, and later exchange of technical info was agreed upon. Fol receipt Palun 151 mtg called May 18 with Turk and Fr Emb reps for gen discussion.
- 2.
- Several mtgs have been held with Brit Emb reps and info exchanged. No reply yet recd Dept’s Aide-Mémoire May 10 mailed you May 11, but AmEmb London in 1620 [1920] May 163 advises UK generally willing follow Dept’s lead. Dept agrees with you approach to refugee problem shld continue to be through UN and expects no difficulty with Brit assuming US and UK can play parts commensurate with their interests in problem and can be relatively free of close UN supervision.
- 3.
- Dept agrees desirability initiate limited work projects at earliest opportunity and will be glad receive recommendation PCG Technical Comm and explore all possible source funds including possibilities under UNRPR. It appears unlikely, however, that additional US grant funds can be obtained for this purpose from present session Congress, and other sources believed uncertain before new program agreed.
- 4.
- Dept agrees desirability skipping survey group phase if this cld accelerate program. However, until authoritative survey made, program approved and funds obtained there is little that proposed Development Board could do of operational nature. Head of survey group wld appear to require different capabilities than man to carry out program. Moreover, it is essential to get man of greater stature to head short survey and sell program to UN, US public and Congress than can probably be obtained for longer range administration of program. Until program developed it will be difficult ascertain type operating agency required, particularly with regard auspices and degree of centralization to be followed in execution program. Such an agency may require GA approval.
- 5.
- Dept pleased at your report that satisfactory commitments expected from Israel and Arab states shortly re repatriation and resettlement, respectively. For your info, all Dept plans call for financial assistance for repatriation as well as resettlement. Dept agrees your proposed allocation of refugees and strategy in gaining acceptance your plan. Dept aware that you need US commitment along lines given urtel before Israel and Arab states will agree accept definite number refugees. You will be advised soon as Pres has made decision.
Acheson