Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Near East: Jordan-Yemen, Volume XIII

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

Washington, May 17, 1957—6:11 p.m.

1747. Embtels 1591,² 1592.³

1. Consideration being given next steps in our efforts strengthen stabilize Jordan. ICA cabling separately our preliminary comments on Embassy’s proposals for expenditure $10 million and our need for further information. We feel emphasis should be on ascertainment minimum immediate needs Jordan rather than longer term projects.

2. We also planning explore further with Iraqis possibilities their giving tangible assistance Jordan. Feel it imperative we persuade Saudis, Iraqis, Jordanians to move beyond stage of public statements and private assurances of support to establishment practical working relationships for implementation such assurances. We considering suggestions we could make to this end, such as consultation among Finance Ministers three countries. Embassy views requested.

3. Study possibilities US military aid Jordan Army view assuring morale and efficiency of necessary force maintain effective internal security going forward. Considerations include: 1) need to minimize impact US arms aid on Arab-Israel situation; 2) logistic and training problem which would be created by introduction other than British weapons into Jordan Army; 3) our desire avoid emergence as sole source military or economic aid Jordan, and wish obtain participation friendly Arab states in such program. Will report our conclusions soonest. Meanwhile you should endeavor forestall hopes that massive direct US military assistance Jordan on way.

4. Re Embtel 1584,⁴ while we appreciate need for periodic encouragement Hussein and others to press forward along course they have so rightfully chosen, we will not be surprised if they seek minimize risks by … hesitating precipitate open enmity of Syria, etc… .

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 685.00/5–1557. Secret. Drafted by Bergus and approved by Berry.
2. Telegram 1591 from Amman, May 15, conveyed the substance of a conversation between Mallory and Samiral Rifai. Their discussion touched on the following subjects: rapprochement with Saud and Faisal, the removal of Syrian troops from Jordan, budgetary assistance, Jordan’s request for military equipment and military training, radio broadcasting, the visit of King Hussein to the United States, and the proposed cultural agreement between Egypt and Jordan. (Ibid.)
3. In telegram 1592 from Amman, May 15, Mallory informed the Department that Rifai had formally requested military assistance from the United States, and had handed the Ambassador a “Top Secret” list of arms and material. Mallory noted, among other things, that American military aid would have a great impact and that the United States could “with modest cost achieve notable results.” (Ibid., 785.5–MSP/ 5–1557)
4. In telegram 1584 from Amman, May 14, Mallory informed the Department that King Hussein had decided not to proceed to Baghdad to meet with King Saud who was presumably in Iraq on a state visit. (Ibid., 785.11/5–1457)