116. Notes on a Meeting of the Intelligence Advisory Committee1
[Here follow the first two items concerning procedural matters.]
3. Crisis Situation: Probable Effects of US-Supported UN Sanctions Against Israel
The IAC devoted approximately an hour and a half to consideration of the draft presented by CIA.2 Three aspects of the problem were given special attention:
- 1.
- The attitude of the USSR toward sanctions. The paper was modified to indicate that the USSR might view these with some reluctance in view of the precedent which voting of sanctions against Israel would establish.
- 2.
- The attitude of Israel toward sanctions—whether they would yield if it became evident that sanctions were to be voted or whether they would hold out as long as possible. The IAC felt that Israel had given every indication of believing that at this point in time a firm and uncompromising position is its best defense, but note was taken of the fact that Eban had been recalled for conferences which might influence its position.
- 3.
- The effect of sanctions on Israel. It was generally agreed that France would in all probability make every effort to see that munitions and money got through to Israel in spite of any UN sanctions imposed. Even if this country invoked provisions of Trading With the Enemy Act to block transfer of funds to Israel, attempts might well be made to circumvent the law by sending funds through France. Though this could involve danger of criminal prosecution, it was pointed out that the strong feelings in this country would make extensive prosecution difficult.
The Chairman suggested that since the paper was being cleared word for word, it be put out as a SNIE. Admiral Frost indicated that he had some reservations on this point, and Mr. Furnas stated that if it were to become a SNIE he would want to refer it for detailed consideration to a number of people who so far had had only limited opportunity to study it. It was agreed that it would be put out under a covering memorandum similar to that used for the crisis situation paper of last week.
[Here follows discussion of the Philippines, the Persian Gulf, Eastern Europe, and the Dominican Republic]