283. Telegram From the Embassy in Egypt to the Department of State1
502. From Johnston.Embtel 492.2 Have attempted minimize Arab League complications by arranging meeting four Foreign Ministers concerned prior to Arab League Council meeting. However Foreign Ministers clearly feel obliged submit Jordan valley program to Council for final concurrence. While I cannot evaluate complex political forces which may bear on Council consideration of program, wish set forth following observations for comment and suggestions.
Assuming continued Egyptian cooperation, Saudi Arabia unlikely create serious difficulties and neither Libya nor Yemen expected play active role. Iraq however could cause trouble.
Important interest Iraq in Arab League Council appears be take leadership in determining Arab position and tactics re North African question in forthcoming GA. Iraq–Egypt struggle for Council leadership could conceivably result in tactical Iraqi opposition Jordan valley plan because of role Egypt has played. Am attempting reduce embroilment in Arab League controversies generally by seeking through Egypt to place four-nation recommendation as first item Council agenda.
Iraq may oppose plan in attempt demonstrate that Iraq’s uncompromising anti-Israel stand not modified as result military orientation toward West. If this possibility appears to develop Embassy Baghdad may find means encourage Iraq maintain earlier disposition to stay out of problem and let states concerned decide. In this connection Fawzi’s desire avoid any step re plan which might be provocative to Iraq (see reference telegram) is of interest.
[Page 481]On basis limited information available to me it would appear unwise for Embassy Baghdad, myself or member my staff engage in substantive discussion Jordan valley plan with Iraqi officials as it might stir up interest that unlikely be constructive. However if Embassy believes it necessary to have detailed discussion I might be able send Troxel Baghdad for discreet consultation Embassy personnel.