10. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Israel 1
466. Eyes only Ambassador from Secretary. I wish to give you this advance information that recent discussions that have taken place through covert channels with both Israel and Egyptian Government representatives give us substantial hopes that it may be possible at an early date for some person who will be designated by the President and myself to meet secretly with Ben Gurion and with Nasser and commence an exchange of views between the two governments with a view to a settlement of the principle issues between the two countries. It is not clear at this time to what extent it may be wise and possible for our representative to be in touch with our embassies in Tel Aviv and Cairo. I will in any event let you know from time to time how the matter is developing. You should not however until further notice indicate to anyone connected with the Israel Government nor to any other member of the Embassy the fact that you have been informed that the talks may be taking place.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 674.84A/1–656. Top Secret; Alpha. Drafted by Russell and approved and signed by Dulles.↩