352. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Syria1
2270. Thoughtful analysis recent political developments Syria contained Embtel 27792 most helpful in assessing present US position Syria and providing basis for consideration possible courses action. We particularly concerned over evidence growing Soviet influence. In general discussion Middle East at Bonn NATO meeting3 Secretary stated view USSR at least endeavoring covertly establish Communist domination ME and said it may have succeeded in one case (Syria).
We believe our actions with regard Syria should be within context relations which are correct but neither friendly nor helpful. Our present thinking is that we should continue maintain minimum official contacts with GOS while endeavoring discreetly encourage elements opposed present GOS policies (numbered paragraph 5 reftel) but in general avoiding giving impression we attach great importance to our position in Syria or GOS reaction to US acts. Specifically we contemplate either delaying action on GOS requests for assistance (atomic energy agreement if and when requested, aircraft spare parts) or assigning low priority such requests…. We considering suspension exchange program. We studying your recommendation re limiting travel Syrian Embassy personnel and will welcome further suggestions re actions we could take which might have desirable repercussions in Syria. We also believe your suggestion re diverting attention from Egypt to Syria has merit (numbered paragraph 6 reftel) and are considering how it might most effectively be implemented.