330/5–2351: Telegram
The United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin) to the Department of State
priority
1575. Israeli-Syria dispute. Malania (UN) told us of confidential cable just received from Riley for informal use by and in discretion of SC president. Substance approximately as follows:
Sharett told Riley1 it was his understanding that point at issue now is safeguarding of legitimate rights and interests of Arab landowners in that part of demilitarized zone effected by Huleh drainage operations. Immediate task was to explore possibility of agreement with these landowners on basis of compensation or the granting of alternate tracts of land. Israeli Govt had therefore requested Palestine Land Development Company to suspend its operations in affected area for “brief period” necessary to come to understanding with landowners. Suspension effective May 23. On May 24, engineering work would be shifted to other areas of demilitarized zone. Sharett emphasized this would be temporary and partial discontinuance to facilitate understanding with owners. He reasserted “inalienable right” of Israel to complete drainage project.
[Page 699]In Riley’s opinion, Sharett’s position raised “dangerous issue” which probably will cause trouble. Riley cannot now authorize commencement of engineering operations elsewhere in demilitarized zone. Investigation must first take place to determine if new sites are in fact in Israeli territory. Riley has therefore requested Israeli Govt to order that work be stopped altogether until continuation can be authorized in proper manner.
Earliest possible date for MAC meeting is Monday, May 28. Riley will be in chair.
- In a letter transmitted to the General the night of May 22–23, and published in the Jerusalem Post the following morning. Text is in telegram 788 from Tel Aviv, May 23, not printed. (683.84A/5–2351)↩