340.280/9–453: Telegram
No. 656
The Secretary of
State to the Embassy in
Lebanon1
316. Have considered RECNE reactions TVA study and Jordan–Yarmuk proposal and wish make following observations and define present policy line.
[Page 1299]Observations
- 1.
- Facts available to TVA are based on available data, much of it accumulation of precise engineering studies, well as Bunger’s preliminary data.
- 2.
- Experience and knowledge brought to bear by TVA and Chas. T. Main is most unlikely to be refuted by subsequent studies; we may safely assume that general magnitude of costs of Maqarin high dam, and value of Maqarin reservoir as a regulator as compared with Tiberias, are now authoritatively determined.
- 3.
- Report itself will be available shortly for study and field comments as to its merits should await detailed study.
- 4.
- We may conclude that we shall be presented with these
alternatives:
- A.
- Follow line advocated Amman mission; commit additional $60/70 million for Maqarin high dam, requiring five to eight years and secure fewer benefits than would result from development along lines suggested by TVA, at same time freeing Israel to take unilateral action on waters under IG physical control;
- B.
- Follow line suggested by interpretation facts TVA report, as supported by Senate Subcommittee, and endeavor search for formulae which would permit development of water resources on economic lines.
In either case it will be noted that there are elements in TVA proposals indentical with plans of TCA Jordan, which could be carried out soon as surveyed without prejudice eventual decision; and that TVA recommends dam Maqarin of intermediate height for power but not for storage.
As RECNE points out decision need not be made until Harza survey completed but preponderance of evidence suggests that eventual decision will be against commitment of time and funds required for Maqarin high dam.
Policy Line
Present decision of Department and FOA made by Secretary and Stassen is to encourage dissemination of facts as presented by TVA report and to consider our future course after full import this document is understood by Arabs and Israelis.
Following receipt initial printed copies Bergus should seek Carver’s agreement regarding dissemination of Report and Amman must somehow find way to stimulate Jordanian interest in a proposal which we are certain would bring Jordan and its refugees earlier and more substantial benefits than other known proposals.
- Identified also as telegram CRANE 19; repeated to Amman as 102, Damascus as 73, and Tel Aviv as 190, and by pouch to Cairo, Baghdad, and Jidda.↩