501.BB Palestine/7–2649: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Delegation at Lausanne
Unpal 213. Ref Palun 249.1 Although Dept not yet precisely informed what attitude Israeli and Arab Dels will take Lausanne, Dept hopeful its recent diplomatic approaches to NE capitals and growing realization there of necessity for some early action re refugees will produce results Lausanne. Parties should be made to understand that if their intransigence continues next report of PCC to UN will necessarily reflect their respective positions.
Dept concurs your suggestions two weeks exploratory period and PCC initiation proposals if direct agreement not in sight. We believe anything in the nature of a PCC plan shld be avoided at least until fol stage is tried: Proposals shld be advanced by PCC on individual problems in manner which seems most effective and PCC shld be continuously prepared to withdraw, substitute or modify proposals in light reaction parties. This procedure wld keep discussions on negotiating basis with parties continually talking in terms of solutions for various problems and shld afford maximum opportunity reaching solution between now and time report must be made to GA.
Dept is presently preparing supplementary views and instructions on four points mentioned para 3 Palun 249. Meanwhile, fol comments may be helpful:
- (1)
- This subject is under current consideration concerning which you will be informed shortly.
- (2)
- Dept considers Israel shld absorb approx 400,000 Arab refugees and residents, of which Israel estimates 150,000 are already there. However, you should avoid US responsibility for any specific figures. Balance of refugees outside Israel will be absorbed almost entirely by Syria and Jordan including central Palestine. Allocation will necessarily depend upon disposition Gaza refugees and whether Lebanon, Egypt, and Iraq will be able retain token number. Further advice will fol this general subject;
- (3)
- Survey group project progressing and can be ready at PCC call. Meanwhile, Dept awaits your reaction re timing of PCC action under Unpal 208.2 Further advice will fol shortly on this matter;
- (4)
- Dept’s preliminary views re placement on GA agenda sent separately (Unpal 2113).
Fol receipt your proposed letter and further tel. Dept will frame specific instructions on which US initiative in PCC, if required, may be based. Meanwhile, USDel’s reaction to tactics and views herein mentioned will be appreciated.