Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, The Near and Middle East, Volume IX, Part 1

683.84A/6–2752: Telegram

No. 451
The Ambassador in Israel (Davis) to the Department of State¹

secret
priority

Tel Aviv, June 27, 1952—8 p.m.

1426. Dept pass Army. In conv today Col Taxis expressed conviction real danger exists outbreak hostilities between Syria and Israel if latter resumes work on PLDC land east of Jordan and south of Lake Huleh without prior understanding with Syria (Embtel 1393).² He considers it most important mtg take place between parties soonest and that Israel refrain from further work east of Jordan pending outcome of conf. Altho Eytan confirms intention Israel Govt participate in meeting irrespective rank of reps, I propose because of imminence of danger to discuss matter with PriMin tomorrow, expressing gratification over Israel decision not permit minor considerations prevent mtg with Syrian reps, and hope that nothing will be done to provide pretext for breach of peace before ordering mtg.

Comment: Emb considers fears expressed by Col Taxis entirely justified and feels any overt act by Syrian controvention armistice agreement and May 18 res wld play into hands of those elements here who are defeatist about effecting any settlement other than thru use of force (see Embtel 910).³ The failure of attempts to effect mutually advantageous local settlements within framework of armistice agreements has given rise to general feeling of frustration and if continued will increase danger of resort to arms.

While proposed mtg is considered wholly desirable as means of forestalling deterioration of sitn as result of apparent decision Syria to force showdown over work on east bank, fact must be faced that danger of deadlock in mtg is distinct possibility as result wide divergence in respective viewpoints. If Syria shld make “adjustment of demarcation line” to Jordon her basic and minimum demand, chances of success wld be prejudiced to say the least. On other hand it is believed chances of success will be enhanced if Israel carried out what is understood to be present intention to name General Moshe Dayan as principal Israel rep for purposes high level talks. FonOff advises he will probably be assisted by Tekoah, asst legal advisor of FonOff and expert on Huleh question, and that mtg is expected to take place June 30.

Davis

1. Repeated to Jerusalem and Damascus (for Taxis).
2. Document 448.
3. Dated Mar. 4, not printed.