Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Near East: Jordan-Yemen, Volume XIII

30. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Iraq¹

Washington, May 16, 1956—6:33 p.m.

954. For Ambassador. Dept appreciates promptness approach Nuri and opportunity available discuss Jordan problems with Mallory. In further talk with Nuri (Embtel 1184²) you may wish mention following:

1. Dept does not believe Iraq aid Jordan should proceed in context Jordan’s adherence economic committee Baghdad Pact. In highly volatile situation prevailing Jordan raising issue Jordan association with Pact in any form could precipitate severe internal disturbances.

2. Iraqi procedures normally require accountability for government revenue and parliamentary approval. US aid for Jordan totaled $33 million during past 5 years was authorized by Congress in similar manner. PriMin might find it useful so inform parliamentary leaders. USG would be happy discuss feasibility coordinating its aid plans with any program in which Iraq planned assist.

3. We believe PriMin’s thinking re military assistance Jordan eminently sound but question whether plans meet urgency situation. We suggest Iraq discussions with Jordan Chief Staff should be helpful. If in present critical circumstances Jordan, visit of Innab to Iraq is prevented or delayed, it might be useful for Iraq to take initiative in arranging staff talks with Jordan.

4. Dept underlines psychological gestures by Iraq which are highly useful in bringing home to Jordanians closer relations with Iraq, buttress Jordan sovereignty and independence. Cultural relations program might be of special value. Some indication Iraq values Jordan friendship and understanding Jordan has borne brunt of Palestine problem especially refugees might find quick response in Amman today.³

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 785.00/5–1356. Secret; Priority. Drafted by Bergus and Wilkins and approved by Rountree. Repeated to Amman and London.
2. See footnote 4, supra.
3. In telegram 1206 from Baghdad, May 17, Gallman reported that he had conveyed to Nuri the four points outlined in telegram 954. According to the Ambassador, Nuri noted that no “fundamental amelioration” could be expected until Saudi Arabian and Egyptian “maneuvering” in Jordan was curbed. Gallman also reported that Nuri was particularly interested in the prospects of U.S.-Iraqi coordination of assistance for Jordan. (Department of State, Central Files, 785.00/5–1756)