357.AC/4–1050: Telegram
The Minister in Jordan (Drew) to the Secretary of State
priority
67. Boisanger and Azcarate arrived Amman from Jerusalem April 9 seeing Abdullah same day. He extended cordial welcome evincing enthusiasm PCC plan mediation under its auspices between Arab States and Israel. When I met with Boisanger and French Minister Du Marçay late same day former optimistic Jordan at least would utilize good offices PCC. April 10 Boisanger saw separately Prime Minister Tewfiq Pasha, Defense Minister Fawzi Pasha, Samir Pasha and Prime Minister. Apparently Said Pasha Mufti lunching later with King. All had made complete volte face from King’s position previous day insisting Jordan could only resume negotiations with Israel if Egypt took lead. Fawzi suggested possibility sending Jordan delegation Cairo effort prevail Egypt reverse current policy having in mind it was first Arab State undertake armistice negotiations but in same breath expressing complete lack hope progress that direction. King reflected same abrupt shift. Boisanger described all as “dégonflé”.1
Boisanger thinks statements negotiations understood to have been made by Iraq, Syria and Lebanon (details not available here) in course last day or two responsible for reversal. He proceeding Damascus April 10 as planned but completely disillusioned prospect success at this time. Intends inform Israel authorities fully on return Tel Aviv advising them greater moderation in bargaining with Jordan offers only prospect saving situation.
I fear visit of Boisanger while embers Arab League fire still glowing was most ill-timed. Shall seek and report clarification from government circles.
Sent Department 67. Department pass London 27, Paris 7, Tel Aviv 27, Jerusalem 26, Baghdad 8, Beirut 11, Cairo 13, Damascus 10, Jidda 8, Geneva 23 for USPCC.
- Deflated.↩