306. Letter From President Johnson to King Faisal1
Your Majesty:
Since the unhappy events of last June, I have tried to keep Your Majesty currently informed on the attitude of the United States toward developments in the difficult Near Eastern situation. In this spirit, I would like to share with you my views on the future now that the United Nations Security Council has unanimously adopted its resolution on this complex problem.
The extended debates in New York, both in July and for the past two months, have been difficult for us all. None of us has achieved everything desired. We have all had to adjust and modify our views to establish a workable consensus. Throughout the long effort, our own objective has been to work for a resolution with which both sides can in good conscience cooperate. The unanimous adoption of a resolution by the Security Council on November 22 makes clear that we have succeeded in this important initial step.
Passage of this resolution embodying an agreed set of principles—including withdrawal, an end to belligerency, and secure and recognized boundaries—and authorizing the Secretary General to designate a Special Representative to help the parties concerned work out solutions is most welcome. But it is only a first step.
[Page 586]I recognize that neither our Arab nor Israeli friends are entirely happy with the outcome. We fully understand the concern of both sides on matters which so vitally affect both, and I know how deeply Your Majesty feels on such key issues as Jerusalem, troop withdrawal and a just solution to the refugee problem.
But all members of the Security Council have worked diligently to establish a framework for peace in which the legitimate concerns of all parties can be met. We believe that passage of the November 22 resolution has now set in motion a process which provides an excellent opportunity for us all to do what we can to help establish lasting conditions of peace in this long troubled region.
I recognize and appreciate the contribution to moderation and stability which the Saudi Government has made in recent weeks under your wise leadership. While Your Majesty’s country is not one of the four states most intimately concerned, I have no doubt that Saudi Arabia will continue to take a constructive attitude toward the efforts, now in the hands of Ambassador Jarring, to work out a just and lasting settlement in full agreement with both sides.
You may be sure that we will continue to exert our diplomatic and political influence in support of this effort to secure a fair, equitable and dignified settlement so that all in the area can live in peace, security and tranquility. The unanimity of the Council’s action gives us all a particular opportunity, which we should not let pass, to try to resolve outstanding problems on a basis mutually acceptable to both sides.
I value highly our continuing friendly exchanges on matters of key importance to both our governments. With understanding and good will, I believe that the many difficulties that still lie ahead can be surmounted and conditions of permanent tranquility established which will benefit all the peoples of the Near East.
All best personal regards,
Sincerely,
- Source: Johnson Library, National Security File, Special Head of State Correspondence File, Saudi Arabia—Presidential Correspondence. No classification marking.↩