357.AC/4–750: Telegram
The Ambassador in Israel (McDonald) to the Secretary of State
priority
255. Following conference at residence April 6 with Boisanger and Ascarate, I gave Eytan early April 7 (despite Passover holiday) substance Department’s instructions cirtel April 3 which not received until after Boisanger visit.
Eytan stressed points made by Sharett to Boisanger, in substance that Israel willing accept any form PCC procedure but convinced no hope for progress until Arab states indicate at least tacitly willingness negotiate peace. In light Arab League actions Cairo Israel fearful PCC procedural suggestions will be futile.
Eytan emphasized, however, possibility which Israel would welcome that Abdullah may find PCC committee idea a means of enabling Jordan resume negotiations with Israel while avoiding Arab League penalties.
I called Eytan’s attention large publicity Palestine Post April 7 on Boisanger’s talk at Foreign Office despite his urgent request for secrecy. I expressed fear this publicity would jeopardize Boisanger’s chances to secure sympathetic hearing in Arab capitals.
Comment: I believe Israel hopes PCC suggestion may result resumption Jordan negotiations. Hence unable understand today’s publicity [Page 850] unless it be one more unexplained Foreign Office leak. End comment.