780.5/11–354: Telegram
No. 235
The Chargé in Iran (Rountree) to the
Department of State1
1016. Re Deptel circular 2112 and Ankara’s 4413 to Department. Iranian attitude toward regional security arrangements and problems relating Iranian adherence to Turkey–Pakistan treaty undoubtedly being discussed by departmental officers with Ambassador Henderson. There have been no local developments since Ambassador’s departure which would have bearing upon his evaluation of situation.
As Department aware, attitudes in Iran re possible adherence to security pact have improved considerably in recent months particularly following Soviets clumsiness in July 8 aide-mémoire.4 Certain Iranian newspapers with some regularity refer to futility of neutrality for Iran and necessity for country take its stand with free world; Government apparently attempting cautiously to prepare public for moves in direction adherence to regional security arrangement. [Page 557] Nevertheless, we continue believe Iranian decision this connection not likely to be made before US is prepared discuss with Shah extent to which aid will be given in strengthening Iranian forces. Until then, therefore, we do not believe it would be particularly fruitful for either Turks or Iraqi make definite proposals to Iran re bilateral treaty. Moreover, we inclined believe once Iran is in position to make decision it would be far more reluctant to undertake bilateral pact with Iraq, also relatively weak contributor to area defense, then it would to adhere to existing Turkey–Pakistan treaty with knowledge this measure would have strong US support.
On other hand, if considerations in Iraq, Syria and other Arab states such as to render it advisable adopt procedure under which series bilateral agreements would be made, failure of participants, and particularly of US, to consult fully with Iran might lead to concern on part Iranians that interested countries are proceeding with defense arrangements without due regard Iranian security. This concern would be aggravated in light previous omission attack on Iran as criterion for re-activation Suez base. It therefore important that Shah and Iranian Government be kept informed as to intentions other parties, rough timetable, and fact that Iran free to participate if it so desires.
- Repeated to Ankara, Cairo, Karachi, Baghdad, London, Paris, Damascus, Jidda, Beirut, and Amman.↩
- Not printed, but see footnote 3, Document 233.↩
- Document 233.↩
- Documentation on the Soviet note to Iran is scheduled for publication in volume x.↩