Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Arab-Israeli Dispute, 1955, Volume XIV

163. Telegram From the Department of State to the Secretary of State, at Geneva¹

Washington,July 19, 1955—3:53 p.m.

Tedul 23. Alpha and Middle East. Eyes only Secretary from Acting Secretary. Re Dulte 15,²Secto 28.³

1. No tanks of any type have been scheduled by US for Iraqis, and suggestion of Eden that UK should supply Centurions (at US expense) was first intimated to us by Makins in US–UKME strategy talks two weeks ago. We made no comment.

2. Iraqis have not indicated they want us to obtain Brit tanks for them. We understand they prefer US equipment.

3. In view broad effect which your talks at Geneva may have upon future joint US–UK plans for ME defense, we are suggesting to Makins that continuation of ME strategy talks which are scheduled for this week should be postponed until after Geneva conference has been concluded.UK had presented its concepts two weeks ago, which could involve us in substantially stepped-up expenditures. We had expected to present our position this week but under circumstances will defer for further consideration.

4. No further developments on Alpha here.

Hoover

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 684a.86/7–1955. Top Secret; Limited Distribution. Drafted, approved, and signed by Hoover.
2. See the editorial note,supra.
3. Document 161.