501.BB Palestine/7–1449: Telegram
The Consul at Jerusalem (Burdett) to the Secretary of State
secret
Jerusalem, July
14, 1949—11 a. m.
463. Comments on Tel Aviv’s 528, eleventh follow:
- 1.
- Although Jordan bound abide by terms armistice, article 8 provides only for “formulation of agreed plans and arrangements”. Not bound reach agreement in practice despite previous agreement in principle.
- 2.
- Since past history special committee shows not possible formulate agreed plans, logical adopt different approach, broaden terms reference and attempt progress from armistice conditions to peace conditions.
- 4.
- [3?] Proposal as understood by Consulate General has always possessed twofold purpose lessening tension Jerusalem by solving article 8 problem and progress towards peace through agreement on delimitation Arab Israel areas and related questions.
- 5.
- [4?] Relinquishment by Israel portion Arab quarters seized by force in Jerusalem necessary as part final peace and consistent with US policy on territorial settlement. Opposition by Sharett to Department’s proposal on grounds would involve return Arab portions Jerusalem directly contrary to US policy.
- 5.
- Demarcation of zones essential part plan for international status Jerusalem PCC required present September GA. Line can be drawn either by agreement between Israel and Jordan or arbitrarily by PCC. If Israel persists in rejection US proposals suggest PCC immediately consider demarcation line and other related questions.
- 6.
- Consulate General believes US should intensify efforts secure Israel acceptance US policy on both refugees and territory since Sharett’s remarks afford grounds for hope representations making themselves felt.
- 8.
- [7?] Israel acceptance broad terms reference still considered prerequisite start actual negotiations in MAC.
Sent Department; repeated Tel Aviv 75, Amman 47.
Burdett