501.BB Palestine/7–2649: Telegram

Mr. Paul A. Porter to the Secretary of State

secret

Palun 249. Preliminary impressions leave me dubious as to prospect of important changes of attitude as result recess. Regret that holidays ending Ramadan, failure Shiloah arrive (due July 27), and unavailability Egyptian delegation make it impossible at present obtain more definitive views. Talks with colleagues on PCC and delegation members available give no grounds for optimism as to settlement by agreement here. Apparently parties willing to continue endless and aimless discussions.

At Executive session PCC morning July 25, I suggested we spend next two weeks in exploring prospects of agreement. If it should appear, as seems likely, that no agreement can be developed by mutual consent, PCC should then initiate proposals that in its view are equitable. I obtained provisional approval for this procedure.

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Therefore request Department’s views and instructions on (1) equitable territorial settlement; (2) provisional allocation refugees by area in light Nr. 1; (3) information re status survey group project; (4) preliminary position US re desirability placing overall Palestine question on GA agenda. Letter detailing these first reactions being prepared and subsequent telegram will convey suggestions US delegation re possible territorial settlement.

This request covers waterfront and I recognize its general character. Feel it important however that Department begin formulating a specific position on outstanding issues in view of probable contingency that impasse will continue and PCC may have obligation to initiate proposals. Failure to follow such course could make UN role in bringing about Palestine settlement meaningless and cast UN efforts into category of futile debating society. We may be forced to take initiative and I want instructions as specific as possible.

Porter