Office of the Historian

77. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Jordan1

Washington, April 25, 1957—8:16 p.m.

1508. Re Deptel 1462.2 For Ambassador. You should soonest convey to King in manner you deem most appropriate and effective US views along following lines:

We wish reaffirm that US is following with greatest concern events in Jordan. We have been giving thought to what additional steps we might take support King and loyal elements in this critical time. We have already moved on a wide front, examples of what we are doing being:

1.
President has stated publicly independence and integrity Jordan vital to US.
2.
Units Sixth Fleet, with Marines aboard, proceeding Eastern Mediterranean. Fleet visit Beirut planned beginning April 30.
3.
Representations to Nasser.
4.
Suggestions to Turks.
5.
Messages to Saud, Nuri and Chamoun.
6.
Urging restraint on Israelis.
7.
Responding favorably to Hussein’s request for deferment visit Richards Mission.

Various other thoughts have occurred to us as to additional measures which might be taken in support of King. However, we fully conscious of fact that some of these might have effect in Jordan different than that which we might desire and intend. For example we are wondering if military equipment would be useful to Jordan at this stage either directly or in conjunction with friendly countries in area. We are also wondering if there are short-term needs which could be met through economic assistance. We would appreciate receiving urgently from King his further views as to how we might most effectively give substance our earnest desire help him.

Ambassador should suggest to Hussein that he might find it desirable to communicate with Saud, King Feisal and Chamoun along following lines:

Egyptian and Syrian interference in form incitement street elements, inflammatory broadcasts, fedayeen raids, and widespread attempts at bribery continues. If, despite clearly expressed wishes by Hussein, Egyptians and Syrians fail desist from such activities, Hussein giving serious consideration to reference this overt and covert violation Jordan sovereignty to Security Council. Decision not yet taken but pace events such that Jordan initiative in Security Council may be called for momentarily. Their preliminary reactions would be appreciated.

Dulles
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 785.00/4–2257. Top Secret; Niact. Drafted by Bergus and approved and signed by Dulles.↩
  2. See footnote 2, Document 71.↩