683.84A/5–1751: Circular telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Iraq 1
priority
713. While not disputing defensive character Iraqi action in transferring air units Syria, Dept considers it unfortunate action taken while Syria–Israel dispute sub judice in SC. Action, which hardly necessary in view acceptance by Syria and Israel of SC cease-fire resolution of May 9 [8], lends itself to propaganda claims of Arab “aggressive intent” and has already created adverse reaction in US.
Inform FonOff of foregoing emphasizing that it is to interests of Syria2 and Arabs generally to refrain from precipitate action prejudicing dispassionate consideration of Syria-Israel dispute in SC. Missions in other Arab caps requested to speak to govts to which accredited similarly. London discuss with FonOff and report UK reaction.
- Telegram drafted by Mr. Barrow and approved for transmission by Mr. Jones. Clearance obtained from Mr. Ludlow for UNP and Mr. Ranney for BNA. Repeated priority to Damascus. Repeated also on routine basis to Amman, Beirut, Cairo, Jerusalem, Jidda, London, New York, Paris, and Tel Aviv.↩
- In telegram 645 from Damascus, May 20, Minister Cannon in part indicated that he had discussed the matter with Prime Minister Qudsi. He concluded: “From US viewpoint I wonder if we have much to gain at this stage by pressing further representations. It seems to us what good will we may have accumulated might best be used to bring Arab states round to reasonable settlement of various problems connected with present dispute and requiring Arab concessions.” (683.84A/5–2051)↩