110.11 DU/5–2553: Telegram
No. 327
The Ambassador in Iran (Henderson) to the Department of State
4524. Following is text of oral statement which Secretary has authorized me to make to Mosadeq in confidence: [Page 729]
“Secretary has asked me tell you that I have informed him our recent conversations; that I have also described to him present Iranian financial and economic situation; and that he expects have further discussions with me this regard following my arrival Washington June.
“Secretary has also requested me tell you his present journey through Middle East and Asia primarily fact-finding character; that it has been taken with purpose obtaining better understanding problems this area; and that he not undertaking while on this trip make decisions re policy or action.
“Secretary added he regretted hear you apparently coming opinion it would serve no useful purpose continue searching for solution problem compensation; and that therefore you thinking of ignoring that problem in making plans restoration Iranian economy. He has asked me convey you his hope Iran and UK in their mutual interest and in interest whole free world will find solution this problem soon as possible; and in his opinion such solution will help speedily dissolve many Iran’s present difficulties.
“Secretary said he particularly sorry efforts US contribute solution this problem so far unsuccessful.
“Secretary requested I convey you his regret that limitations upon his time have prevented him from visiting Iran this time. He would have liked to have met you and other Iranian leaders and have discussed face to face problems mutual concern. He hopes, however, visit Iran another occasion when he will have more time his disposal.”1
- Ambassador Henderson reported on May 26 that the previous day he had an interview with Mosadeq and delivered the Secretary’s message. Mosadeq thanked him for it, and expressed his opinion that the United Kingdom as well as the Soviet Union had the same policy toward Iran: to force Iran into political and economic chaos. Therefore, he hoped Henderson, when he was in Washington in June for consultations, would do his utmost to impress upon the U.S. Government the severity of the difficulties he was facing in maintaining political and economic stability in an effort to stave off chaos, Communism, and British control. (Telegram 4535; 110.11 DU/5–2653)↩