780.5/3–2553
No. 125
Undated Memorandum From Iraqi
Foreign Minister Tawfiq
al-Suwaidi to the Ambassador in Iraq (Berry)1
Personal and Confidential for the Ambassador
Iraq realizes its duties toward the defense of its independence and of the territory within its boundaries. Iraq has no other responsibility except that embodied in the Treaty for Collective Security among the Arab countries, in force at the present time.2
Until such time as arrangements for the foresaid mutual defense of Arab countries are completed, Iraq regards it to be its duty to begin immediately to supply the necessary means which will enable its army to discharge its obligations for defense. It had drawn up the requisite plans to achieve this end. It has been found, however, that its need for arms, ammunition and equipment will exceed its material capacity and economic potential, and that the execution of such plan will hinder its constructive progress which is not less important than any military or defense activities to be carried out.
Had Article 43 of the United Nations Charter been successfully implemented and the International Police for the prevention of aggression established, the members of the United Nations would have not felt so strongly the dangers surrounding them at the present time. Iraq, therefore, in searching for the most suitable means to secure the numerous items required to complete its defense, must request these from one or more United Nations members. The safe-guarding of Iraq from aggression on its northern and eastern boundaries and the protection of its oil resources have become the concern of all the free world and a matter which cannot be treated lightly. Articles 51 and 52 of the United Nations Charter particularly recognize the need of all member states such as Iraq to unify their efforts with other countries of common interest in finding suitable means, including regional organization for common defense against external aggression.
Iraq’s requirements in carrying out its duty as defender of its territories requires important quantities of arms, equipment and supplies. These cannot be achieved except through aid from the United [Page 357] States and Great Britain, as was done for Turkey when it was found that the interest of the free world required shouldering of the responsibilities and the expenditure of the requisite funds to assist Turkey carrying out its defense duties.
If Iraq is required to discharge similar obligations in defense of its independence and territories, it is essential that it be extended every help and assistance and provided with necessary arms, supplies and the means of training required by modern armies. The required funds can be assessed by military experts and should be considered as part of what must be spent for the defense of the free world and all its vital resources against aggression.