391. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Israel 1

226. Convey following orally to Prime Minister, emphasizing need for absolute secrecy.

Consonant with its desire to consult with GOI on problems affecting Middle East, and having now reached certain conclusions concerning the situation in Syria, US desires convey following views to GOI.

US judges that Syria has become, or is about to become, base for military and subversive activities in Near East. This same view is taken by Moslem nations bordering on Syria, and as Government of Israel has made clear to Government of US, is likewise shared by Israel.

Decision as to what action should be taken to meet danger existing in Syrian situation is in US view essentially one for Moslem nations in area to take. Nations in question have been so informed by USG, and reassured that US policy as set forth in the Middle East resolution remains valid.

US thus does not know what countries under reference will decide to do. However, US continues believe it vital that their attention not be diverted from measures to meet danger of situation in Syria by any action undertaken by Israel. US gratified that Government of Israel has revealed its complete agreement with USG on this point.

US does not see in Syrian situation immediate threat to security of Israel. Security of Syria’s Arab neighbors is more directly endangered owing to demonstrated ability of Syria to undertake subversive [Page 691] activities in these countries. Israel, however, can have no doubt of deep US interest in preservation integrity and independence of Israel.

FYI UK Ambassador being instructed take same position in general conversations with top Israeli officials. Secretary seeing Eban September 12.2

If further information conveyed re Syria it will be cabled Embassy. End FYI.

Dulles
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 783.00/9–1057. Top Secret; Priority; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Rockwell; cleared with Dulles; and approved by Rountree who signed for Dulles. Repeated to Ankara, Baghdad, Amman, and Beirut.
  2. A summary of the conversation was transmitted to the Embassy in Tel Aviv on September 12 in telegram 235. (Ibid., 783.00/9–1257)