Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, The Near and Middle East, Volume IX, Part 2

774.56/5–153: Telegram

No. 1150
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom¹

confidential
priority

Washington, May 1, 1953—6:16 p.m.

7150. Egyptian Military Attaché states he instructed endeavor obtain Department reply Egyptian arms request before departure for Cairo May 7.

Department feels obliged comply. Negative report to RCC likely create doubt re US intention assist Egypt thus adversely affecting discussions with UK and creating unfavorable atmosphere Secretary’s visit.² Accordingly, Department will inform Military Attaché May 6 US prepared sell Egypt items listed Deptel 6804 to London. Embassy London should advise British adding we hope receive British comments beforehand but impelled proceed in any case.

Dulles

1. Repeated to Cairo as telegram 2115.
2. See footnote 4, Document 1155.