641.80/9–1851: Telegram
The Ambassador in Israel (Davis) to the Department of State 1
secret
Tel Aviv, September 18, 1951—6 p. m.
257. Emb comment Depcirtel 178 [173], Aug 23.2
- a.
- As to possibilities sterner Brit pol NE countries victims “irresponsible nationalism”, Emb believes that firmer Brit pol in NE in making but that it will tend to favor Israel rather than other sides. This country is exercising care not to provoke UK while Brit are striving for further improvement relations with Israel which have recovered to marked extent since 1948.
- b.
- Although conscious of decline in Brit prestige as result events in Iran and Egypt, Israelis still regard UK as principal fon influence in NE, and have great respect for its experience. Although US principal source vital econ support, Israel still tends identify interests with those of UK. It is mindful importance Brit market and values UK positive polit assistance as in Suez dispute where both countries aims were identical. For historical and other reasons Israelis may overestimate Brit strength in area. They watch hopefully for signs of UK “get tough with Arabs” pol, laud any indications of such pol, and compare such unfavorably with alleged US “appeasement” of Arabs.
- c.
- Emb agrees views para 3 London Embtel 786, Aug 93 and excellent despatches such as London’s 7373 that close coop with UK in NE essential. It believes further common agreed pol necessary with respect not only to polit principles and objectives but also as to methods and timing. It believes further that care shld be exercised not permit development frictions which wld weaken effectiveness coop with UK and that vigilance shld be exercised prevent success attempts of any nations play off powers against each other.
Davis