683.84A/5–1951: Telegram
President Weizmann of Israel to President Truman 1
Have learned with deep apprehension proposal by American representative in Security Council to stop drainage of Hule swamp in order to appease Arab League that waged aggressive war against Israel. Drainage of Hule is essential not only for reclamation of largest malarial swamp area in Israel but for agricultural development of arid zones throughout country particularly Negev. To hold up Hule project means perpetuation of desert conditions in vast areas capable of providing homes for tens of thousands of immigrant settlers. Cannot conceive America lending hand to adoption of such calamitous decision which affects very essence of our life. Pray you prevent grievous action. Warmest personal regards.
- Telegram sent through commercial channels to the White House and transmitted to the Secretary by President Truman under cover of the following memorandum of May 19: “Attached is copy of a telegram that I have just received from the President of Israel. I know nothing about this situation and I’ll appreciate it if you will prepare a reply.” For President Truman’s reply of May 31, see p. 701.↩