611.80/9–454: Telegram
No. 888
The Ambassador in Lebanon (Hare) to the Department of State1
211. We continue feel that giving assurances to Israel at this time is not justified by facts of situation in which it is Israel, rather than the Arab states, which is assuming belligerent posture and in which any danger to Israel of our giving arms aid to Arabs is distinctly remote. However, if for reasons which Department considers compelling delivery of some such note is necessary, draft communicated in Cirtel 124, September 1 is considered reasonable presentation and one which conforms to actuality. Point on which Arabs will undoubtedly seize and which will be given headline [Page 1648] treatment is suggested arms assistance to Israel. It would be preferable if their emotions were not needlessly excited by inclusion this point but, if mention considered essential, we believe association of this idea with concept of regional defense is best approach.
- Repeated to Tel Aviv, Amman, Baghdad, Cairo, Damascus, and Jidda.↩