Office of the Historian

120.280/11–353: Telegram

No. 721
The Ambassador in Lebanon (Hare) to the Department of State1

secret
Beirut, November 3, 1953—4 p.m.

400. From Johnston. Conferred lengthily November 2 with President Chamoun, Prime Minister Yafi and President Chamber Deputies Osseiran and on November 3 with Foreign Minister Naccache.2 Received cordially by all with clear evidence of interest. [Page 1402] Tendency to discuss project in context of past events and area political issues less pronounced than elsewhere and officials appeared willing evaluate plan on merits. This particularly true of Chamoun, Yafi, Naccache.

Agreed no action now and Government of Lebanon will study plan in detail preparatory to definitive conversations later on. Small benefit in plan to Lebanon did not appear dismay officials but they showed pronounced interest in assistance with other projects. Litani mentioned. Hare and Peter will file report on aid requests received from Government of Lebanon in last several days obviously in anticipation up-coming talks re TVA plan. General agreement members of my party that attitude here more realistic and favorable than anywhere else.

Prime Minister stressed need for steps to “improve psychological atmosphere.” Mentioned possible Israeli territorial concessions to permit refugee resettlement. Stated US economic aid which had hitherto been granted Arabs drop by drop could go far toward creating better atmosphere and should be negotiated without direct reference Arab acceptance TVA proposal. I told him we prepared to give serious consideration any suggestions Government of Lebanon might make.

Naccache and Ammoun of Foreign Office exceptionally forthcoming and receptive. Unnecessity of agreement with Israel and possibility elaborating regulatory authority impressed and interested them particularly.

Shishikli and Yafi hinted it might be advisable visit Baghdad. Following telephone conversation with Berry last night I now await this final recommendation and plans depend on that.

Hare
  1. Repeated to Amman, Cairo, Damascus, Baghdad, Jidda, and Tel Aviv.↩

  2. Telegram 403 from Beirut, Nov. 4, contained the following report from Johnston:

    “Lebanese Foreign Minister asked me call on him alone and privately afternoon third. He expressed his personal conviction that TVA proposals were sound and that it was to Lebanon’s interest cooperate in their implementation. Pointed out Moslem–Christian differences in country and went on to say Christian elements would support plan. He had personally intervened with Prime Minister before my discussions with him on November 2 and I could count on his further cooperation. He looked forward my return visit.” (120.280/11–453)

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