741.56374/4–2354: Telegram
No. 1326
The Acting
Secretary of State to the Embassy
in Egypt
top secret
Washington, April 23, 1954—10:50
a.m.
1310. Noforn. Ambassador Hussein conveyed to Department through third party following comments from Nasir on new British Suez Base proposals:
- 1.
- Iran should not be mentioned in section providing for consultation in case of threat of attack. Some general geographic expression could be used instead.
- 2.
- US should not be mentioned in describing consultations to be held in case of threat of attack. Clause could state simply consultations will be held without specifying between whom.
- 3.
- Participation of US firms in future operation and maintenance of Base should not be mentioned.
We have not provided Hussein with any information on British proposals, but he appears quite well informed as to their nature.
Believe we should leave it to Egyptians to make above points to British when they begin discussions.
Smith