Office of the Historian

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

Washington, June 4, 1956—6:54 p.m.

1030. Baghdad’s 12542 and 1260.3 Dept shares Nuri’s views seriousness situation Jordan and threats which recent developments there pose to Iraq and others interested security integrity NE. In manner most likely be effective you should point out to Nuri it was precisely these considerations which impelled your discussions with him based on Deptels 9434 and 944.5 We are continuing follow situation Jordan closely. For confidential information Iraq Govt, only, subject Congressional approval, we plan offer Jordan nearly $8 million in economic and technical assistance in forthcoming fiscal year. US remains prepared discuss feasibility coordinating its aid plans with any program in which Iraq planned assist. We discussing developments with British.

In delicate situation Jordan, appears to us there is clear need for Iraq effort over and above what US and UK might do. As prospering and orderly Arab state with traditional ties Jordan, Iraq has means strengthen constructive influence which not available to US and UK. For example, prompt Iraqi initiative in offering loans to Jordan authorized by Iraq Parliament would serve as clear evidence to Jordanians Iraq Arab state willing provide material help rather than mere promises Jordan. This wholesome effect might be lost if Iraq seeks link economic assistance matters with other questions such as military relationships. Dept again underlines value of psychological gestures which demonstrate to Jordan people value maintaining friendly relations with Iraq. Would hope worthwhile military relationships could develop once feelings of mutual confidence established.

In developing situation Jordan, it important against background of actual or potential clashes of rival elements struggling for power, there should emerge among Jordanians widespread appreciation common [Page 49] interests with Iraq. We can not over-emphasize to Nuri feeling prompt and generous Iraqi initiative at this time absolutely essential to fostering such appreciation on part Jordanians.6

London advise FonOff.

Hoover
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 685.87/5–2956. Secret. Drafted by Bergus and approved by Rountree who signed for Hoover. Repeated to Amman, Beirut, and London.↩
  2. In telegram 1254 from Baghdad, May 28, the Embassy reported a conversation between an official of the Iraqi Foreign Office and a representative of the Embassy. The conversation focused on recent Jordanian-Iraqi relations and the exchange of three notes with the Iraqis. (Ibid., 685.87/5–2856)↩
  3. In telegram 1260 from Baghdad, May 29, the Embassy reported that Nuri regarded the replacement of Innab by Nuwar as a serious matter. According to the Iraqi Prime Minister, Nuwar was “very susceptible to Egyptian-Soviet influence.” (Ibid., 685.87/5–2956)↩
  4. Printed as Document 28.↩
  5. Document 29.↩
  6. In telegram 1325 from Baghdad, June 9, Gallman informed the Department that he had conveyed to Nuri the points highlighted in telegram 1030. Among other things, Nuri noted that Iraq did not envision any economic or financial assistance to Jordan beyond the potash and superphosphate projects approved by the Iraqi parliament. (Department of State, Central Files, 685.87/6–956)↩