80. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Turkey1
Washington, April 26,
1957—7:20 p.m.
2526. For Ambassador.
- A.
- We have informed King Hussein of Jordan:
- 1.
- We wish reaffirm our great concern events his country and have been giving thought to steps we could take to support him. We have already moved on wide front. President has stated publicly independence and integrity Jordan vital to US. Units Sixth Fleet with Marines aboard proceeding Eastern Mediterranean and Fleet visit to Beirut planned begin April 30. We making representations to Nasser and … Israelis. Have made suggestions to Turks. Have sent messages Saud, Nuri and Chamoun requesting their cooperation. Have responded favorably to Hussein’s request for deferment visit Richards Mission.
- 2.
- Various other thoughts have occurred as to additional measures which might be taken. However we aware some of these might be counterproductive. For example we wondering if military equipment would be useful to Jordan at this stage, given either directly or in conjunction friendly countries of area.
- 3.
- We also wondering about short term needs Jordan which could be met through economic assistance.
- 4.
- We would appreciate receiving urgently from King his further views as to how we might most effectively give substance to our earnest desire to help him.
- B.
…
Ankara may at its discretion pass to Turks in strict confidence information contained A 1 and A 4 above. Cairo Damascus should consider info this telegram strictly for Ambassador’s background info.
Dulles
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 685.00/4–2657. Top Secret; Priority. Drafted by Parker and approved by Rountree who signed for Dulles. Repeated priority to Cairo and Damascus.↩