Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Arab-Israeli Dispute, January 1–July 26, 1956, Volume XV

277. Telegram From the Consulate General at Jerusalem to the Department of State¹

Jerusalem, April 12, 1956—noon.

414. Colonel Hommel of UNTSO has given me morning April 12 following details respecting messages exchanged between UNSYG and Israelis in course his talks with Nasser.

In message sent April 11 UNSYG apprised Ben Gurion that Nasser had accepted proposals regarding cease-fire through observance Article II, paragraph 2 GAA in its entirety (ConGentel 404²).

A second message was received at UNTSO headquarters from UNSYG for Ben Gurion somewhat later along following lines. UNSYG expressed himself as pleased Ben Gurion’s agreement keep patrols 500 meters back from D/L while Hammarskjold-Nasser talks in progress. Referring again Nasser’s acceptance cease-fire UNSYG pointed out that since both sides have accepted he urged steps be taken at once implement undertaking.

However, before arrival second message Hommel had received Sharett’s reply to first message.³ Reply referred renewed outbreaks Fedayeen activities night April 11 and stated inter alia utter falseness Nasser’s assurances stands exposed thereby, etc. (Understand full text already transmitted by Tel Aviv.) Hommel has not therefore delivered UNSYG second message to GOI. He is reporting fully to UNSYG and expects some further communication in response Sharett’s message.

Cole

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 674.84A/4–1256. Confidential; Niact. Received at 8:08 a.m. Repeated niact to Cairo and priority to Amman, Beirut, Baghdad, Damascus, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv.
2. Document 256.
3. See Document 274.