290. Editorial Note

At the 446th Meeting of the National Security Council, May 31, Robert Amory, Jr., of the Central Intelligence Agency gave the intelligence report on “Significant World Developments Affecting U.S. Security.” Included in his briefing was the following on Iran:

“In Mr. Amory’s view, the Turkish coup d’état was having significant repercussions in Iran. Increased activity was apparent among groups which favored the overthrow of the Shah. One source thought that the Shah could remain in power no longer than four more months. However, Mr. Amory pointed out that the Iranian Army did not enjoy the prestige of the Turkish Army, and was not dedicated, as the Turkish Army was. In any event, Mr. Amory thought the Shah’s disposition was more fragile now than it had been any time since Mossadegh.” (Eisenhower Library, Whitman File, NSC Records)