501.BB Palestine/6–1049: Telegram
Mr. John C. Ross to the Secretary of State
709. Bunche has report from Riley in Jerusalem that Dayan has informed him that there was a misunderstanding and that he will withdraw Israeli troops from demilitarized zone around Government House, replacing them with MP’s. A partition of area will be arranged by Riley following NAC meeting June 11. Foregoing message from Riley followed a previous one which indicated belligerence and hostility on Dayan’s part. Reason for change not apparent.
Bunche says he does not understand motives for Israeli actions Government House zone since it obviously endangered their broader objectives. He does feel, however, that it was a deliberately planned action since Dayan is not a hot-headed or impetuous person.