501.BB Palestine/7–1749: Telegram
The Minister in Syria (Keeley) to the Secretary of State
priority
387. When I discussed Israeli reply with PriMin Barazi July 15 he concluded that, irrespective qualms re details, Syrian Government would, as “of its appreciation of friendly advice of its friends” (meaning US), accept Israeli compromise offer. Following receipt today Deptel 283 July 16 I broached subject again when PriMin came to my house to review various matters separately reported and learned that true to his promise he had yesterday instructed Syrian Delegation to accept terms without further discussion.
Unless Israeli raise new issues or renig, armistice agreement will be initialled tomorrow, July 18, and signed during week he said. “I have given you my word; it is final.” Have informed Riley.
Sent Department; repeated Baghdad 76, Beirut 87, London 100, Paris 85, Tel Aviv 48, Jerusalem 58, Amman 49, Cairo 52, Jidda 33, Ankara 56, Bern 24 (for USPCC).