357.AC/3–750: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Delegation to the Palestine Conciliation Commission, at Geneva
329. Unpal 246. We assume Palun 338 supersedes suggestions 3371 re Jordan initiative obtaining direct negots under PCC auspices.
Re proposal outlined Palun 338, since Israeli Del rejected proposed PCC mediation, principal apprehension is that such rejection will be reiterated. In this case Arab element opposing settlement would have additional propaganda argument that Israel insists on settlement on own terms, with possible adverse effect Israeli-Jordanian negots. Israel no doubt aware of this and therefore might accept proposal with qualifications, especially prior agreement on subjects to be discussed. [Page 803] If proposal accepted PCC should exercise caution avoid such suggestions as might interfere these negots. Beginning might be made on subjects affecting Israel and Egypt, since Egyptians have already put forward specific proposals.
You probably agree proposal involves calculated risk in view possible effect on Israeli-Jordanian negots and that proposal may lead PCC into another impasse. Dept prepared accept risk in light your estimate that PCC’s present position requires effort devise new procedural approach.
Suggest you also consider as alternative that PCC attempt achieve same result without submitting a formal proposal which might incur danger rejection and of misuse by parties for propaganda purposes. PCC might informally consider with parties subjects that might usefully be discussed and, on basis these discussions, invite parties to discuss them either privately or with PCC assistance with or without PCC suggestions. Situations might then develop in which PCC could make informal suggestions. We realize difficulty getting Arabs to enter direct talks without some Israeli concession and this might depend upon nature of topics selected. While Israel objects to suggestions from PCC on substantive matters, this might be possible on purely informal basis as normal part of discussions. Object this proposal is to use methods as informal as possible to get parties together with appropriate PCC participation and to avoid such formal proposals as will require governmental consideration and decision. Selection subjects difficult, but Egyptian Gaza proposals offer starting point.
With regard to support by three Govts members PCC, you of course aware parties cannot be forced accept suggestions and recall that previous efforts by Govts to persuade parties modify positions have not been successful.
What are your comments on Eban’s view re French attitude toward role of PCC and possible Israeli-Jordanian agreement reported Palun 337?