641.74/1–551: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Gifford) to the Department of State
3766. In conversation today, Furlonge told EmbOff that FonOff remains convinced for present at least, that it would be unwise move to attempt solve Anglo-Egypt proposal within framework NE defense arrangement. FonOff continues believe that UK requirements in area can best be obtained through bilateral arrangements with states concerned, although alternative suggestions (such as UK-Egypt-Turkish pact) continue to receive attention. In foregoing context, Furlonge went on to say that attention also being given present time to possibility of some kind defense arrangement with Israel and that there had been number of recent indications that Israel might be willing enter into arrangement involving cooperation in war time and possibly even in peace time. FonOff and War Office now examining rights and facilities which UK might require in Israel and Furlonge mentioned specifically use of Israeli ports, right of passage for British troops through Israel and possibly right station troops in Israel. He emphasized whole question in most embryonic stage and that there are many political and military problems which must be studied further before it is decided whether or not proceed with proposal.
We asked Furlonge if FonOff was concerned with effect which such an arrangement might have on UK relations with Arab states. Furlonge replied FonOff had naturally given this question intensive thought and was continuing to do so. Inevitably there would be howls from Arab states, but he thought there was good possibility that UK might be able calm them by emphasizing that close association of this kind between UK and Israel would represent security gain to Arabs in view of restraining influence it would give UK on Israelis. We [Page 17] also asked if there might not be danger that Arabs would interpret such an arrangement as indication that Israeli troops might be used to supplement British forces operating in Arab states in event of hostilities. Furlonge said FonOff had this problem very much in mind and had strongly emphasized to military that there could never be any question of treaty provision for utilizing Israeli troops in Arab states in time of war and that it would be necessary give Arabs firm assurance on this score.
General Robertson planning visit Israel February 17 and Furlonge himself will be there shortly before that time if his present plans for trip through area are approved. Furlonge indicated FonOff hopes that thinking on this question may be developed before that time to point where, if favorable decision taken, Robertson may be able take preliminary soundings with Israeli authorities.
Department pass Amman; sent Department 3766, repeated Ankara 12, Baghdad 43, Cairo 8, Jidda 40, Amman 40, Beirut 24, Damascus 17.