Office of the Historian

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

Jerusalem, May 14, 1956—2 p.m.

446. During social call of General Burns at Consulate General last evening I inquired whether he had any further details which I might report regarding progress on matters agreed during Hammarskjold visit. Burns replied in negative sense, indicating quite definitely that there has been no appreciable progress thus far in getting parties to implement the more important undertakings (Consulate General’s 4412) which though agreed in principle still require some specific action. I had already asked him on May 9 whether meeting with Gohar on previous day had achieved anything. To this Burns had replied with a terse “no.”

In course of conversation yesterday Burns said he thought Egyptians are making genuine attempt avoid incidents Gaza Strip D/L. He expressed skepticism about series recent Israeli reports of alleged incidents which he considered as frequently exaggerated (Contel 4453). Burns going Amman May 14 discuss proposal for additional local commanders agreements with Arab Legion chief.

Comment: Burns expects proceed New York in about ten days attend SC meeting and to take some leave in Canada thereafter. [Page 634] Chances substantial progress in next few days on outstanding points agreed by parties with UNSYG presumably not brilliant in view foregoing.

Cole
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 684A.86/5–1456. Confidential. Received at 9:49 a.m. Repeated to Amman, Beirut, Cairo, Damascus, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv.↩
  2. Document 339.↩
  3. Not printed. (Department of State, Central Files, 674.84A/5–1156)↩