325. Telegram From the Secretary of State to the Department of State1
Dulte 5. For Acting Secretary from Secretary. In private talk with Pearson May 3 with Merchant present I raised question Canadian supply arms to Israel. I told him in deep confidence US considering making arrangements for rapid supply to Israel, in event it victim aggression, of F86’s operational in European theater. I said that I hoped Canada would be willing to meet Israeli request purchase F86’s since early delivery would enable pilot training.
Pearson’s first reaction was that Canadian public would question why Canada should do what US unwilling to do, but he indicated understanding problem and desire cooperate. His suggestion was that Canadians might meet half Israeli request for 24 F86’s. He then inquired what was US now supplying or contemplating furnishing Israelis.
I replied comparatively little involved or contemplated.
Pearson in conclusion, after referring Zionist sentiment in Canada, and government’s pre-election vulnerability to “merchant of death” charge, promised to look into matter promptly on return. He said that he would personally urge something moderate be done in way delivery F86’s with concurrent announcement re value aircraft for training purposes.
[Page 602]I emphasized in event aggression against Israel prompt provision materiel easier than troops. Pearson said subject had been left open by Canadian Cabinet pending his return from Paris.2