780.5/1–950: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Israel 1
16. Your 16 Jan 9. Depcirtel Sept 72 based on memo fully setting forth present US policy re arms shipments NE. Copy memo was forwarded Emb.
[Page 697]Dept continues believe shipments arms to Arab States and Israel shld be limited to those necessary for maintaining internal law and order by Govts concerned and for providing for reasonable requirements self-defense. Dept does not desire see arms race develop in NE and will not permit arms shipments from US of nature likely affect adversely the maintenance of peace and security in area.
Dept has received no info justifying conclusion Egypt or any other Arab State has serious intention or immediate plans for renewing hostilities. You shld assure Israelis that US Govt will continue keep close watch on NE arms situation and if convincing evidence received of preparations by any party renew conflict, US will not hesitate use its influence attempt prevent such plans from being carried out.
- This telegram was repeated to Cairo and London.↩
- Not printed; but see editorial note, Foreign Relations, 1949, vol. vi, p. 1365.↩