683.84A/8–351: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Mission at the United Nations1
81. Re Jones-Maffitt telecon Aug 3 on Huleh situation2 Dept believes Riley shld return to NE soonest. Although in principle we feel Riley shld be available answer queries SC mbrs re Suez we believe that since Aug 9 meeting now postponed he shld not be required remain longer in New York.
Dept believes that in view of length of time Riley has been in US, it wld be desirable he make investigation on spot before issuing final report. While procedure Riley adopts is for his decision, we wld suggest [Page 825] that after quick investigation he give tentative report to Israel, either in writing or orally as he sees fit, based on what he now has in mind modified by such additional facts as may come to light during above investigation. Israel cld then have advanced warning and chance take remedial steps to meet final report on Huleh to SC which Riley wld release not later than Aug 31. Similar action shld be taken toward Syrians if found in default by Riley.
In order assist Riley we wld hope that he wld also give Davis in confidence this draft report which cld serve as basis discussions between Davis and Israel Govt in hope persuading latter comply fully before issuance final report. It is possible that threat of publication this report again pointing to Israel’s culpability might have salutary effect re compliance. You may wish give Riley substance Tel Aviv’s 111 Aug 33 which most helpful.
Dept wishes you make clear to Riley above suggestions are made in response his informal query our views.
FYI in McGhee–Eban discussions Dept Aug 6 latter gave Dept copy letter to Riley dated Aug 4 listing number of points re Huleh which Israel Govt desires discuss with Riley. Dept expressed concern at slowness Israel compliance SC res May 18 but stated not presently in position to judge facts pending report from Riley. Expressed hope Israel wld accept Riley’s advice and not attempt base Israel position on unilateral interpretations unacceptable UN. Pointed out Israel failure comply with res might well prejudice likelihood of compliance by others on other Palestine problems. Agreed however that early Riley return NE might facilitate progress toward solution Huleh problem and that direct Riley–Israel Govt discussions preferable to discussions NY between Eban and Riley.