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

684A.85/5–2553: Telegram

No. 618
The Chargé in Israel (Russell) to the Department of State¹

secret

Tel Aviv, May 25, 1953—6 p.m.

1791. Expression of willingness renew local commanders agreement (Embassy telegram 1787)² appears to have been personal decision Prime Minister not shared by some of his close advisers. British Ambassador says that when Foreign Minister saw him May 21 (Embassy telegram 1782)³ latter said he “saw no reason why Israel Government should agree to Secretary’s suggestion.” British Ambassador says he made strong statement support Secretary’s request but had no reason to believe he made any impression.

Wording of final paragraph Prime Minister’s message (Embassy reference telegram) somewhat ambiguous. May refer to situation existing when local commander agreements terminated. General Riley yesterday afternoon in half hour private talk I had with him described that situation as follows: Israel Government insisted terms of local commander agreements be changed before it would agree to reinstituting them. Jordan took position it willing to discuss changes in agreement if they reinstituted but not willing be in position of being forced to agree to changes as pre-condition of reinstitution. Riley at that time urged Israel to agree to reinstitute for sixty days during which time discussions could take place on possible amendments. Israel Government refused.

Yesterday afternoon at reception given by Riley at government House (after my talk with him) attended by Sharett, Eytan, Comay and Makleff, they mentioned to him exchange of messages between Secretary and Prime Minister. He urged them to agree to a brief indeterminate reinstitution of agreements which could be followed immediately by discussion of changes in “terms adapted to present circumstances.”

Director General Foreign Ministry Eytan this morning told me discussions between Makleff and Riley were continuing and that Makleff was working on “practical suggestions” for reinstituting the agreements.

Russell

1. Repeated to Jerusalem, Amman, and Tripoli (for Secretary Dulles).
2. Supra.
3. Document 614.