221. Message From Prime Minister Mollet to President Eisenhower1

Dear Mr. President: I believe that the American Government attaches like us great importance to the agreement which we have concluded with Israel on Sharm-el-Shaikh and on Gaza.

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The Egyptian attitude justifies, in my opinion, the reservations which Israel had made, with our agreement; if the situation were to deteriorate, Israel would be justified in occupying anew the Gaza Strip.

In this eventuality, the effort which we have achieved in common would prove to be vain and the situation in the Middle East would be gravely compromised.

I accordingly take the liberty of urging you strongly to bring into play your personal authority, both in the United Nations and with the Egyptian Government, in order that Israel be given no reason to go back on the decision taken concerning the two areas in question.

We are ready, on our part, to urge moderation and patience on Israel if the situation evolves within the framework of our common accord.

Very faithfully yours

Guy Mollet2
  1. Source: Eisenhower Library, Whitman File, International File. Secret. The source text indicates this is an “unofficial translation”. According to telegram 3630, which transmitted this message to Paris, Mollet’s message was delivered to Herter by Alphand on March 13. (Department of State, Central Files, 974.7301/3–1457) A copy of the original message in French, however, is dated “14 Mars 1957”. (Ibid., Presidential Correspondence: Lot 66 D 204, DeGaulle, Mollet, Gaillard exchange of corres. with Pres/Sec 2/53 thru 1/61)
  2. Printed from a copy that bears this typed signature.