684A.85/2–1650: Telegram
The Consul General in Jerusalem (Gibson) to the Secretary of State
50. Shiloah had conversation this date with General Riley. With respect to Israel Jordan meeting, Shiloah stated he had discussed with Ben-Gurion on February 15 as to how far he was willing to go to secure an agreement with Transjordan. Ben-Gurion stated, according to Shiloah remarks to Riley, that Israel Government might have to give [up?] request for Jewish quarter in old city, due to King Abdullah stand.
Shiloah discussed question of Israel offer to give Transjordan corridor, wide enough for road and possibly railroad, of some 200 to 300 meters in width. Corridor to be under control of Transjordan. Counter request of Transjordan of corridor of 8 to 10 kilometers was unacceptable to Israel.
He stated that at meeting held February 7 there had been tacit agreement to hold one more meeting. To date no suggestion as to date of meeting has been received from Transjordan. Letter by Shiloah [Page 746] was addressed on February 15, inviting attention to plan of holding one more meeting and asked if date could be set for such meeting.
There is discussion among Israel officials as to whether or not meeting between Ben-Gurion and King Abdullah would do good. Shiloah stated he was under impression that if Ben-Gurion was in position to make liberal proposal, it would be better to have junior delegation suggest such proposal, and if acceptable to Transjordan, meeting should be arranged and that it would be worthwhile.
Sent Department 50, repeated Tel Aviv 4, Beirut 5, Damascus 4, Baghdad 3, Jidda 3; Department pass Amman 3, Cairo 10.