Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XXII, Iran

34. Memorandum From Robert W. Komer of the National Security Council Staff to President Johnson¹

Washington, June 5, 1964.

Here are the things the Shah will like to hear, interwoven with a few we’d like to get across to him. I’d strongly urge that (as with Eshkol) you get in the first word; it disarms the guest.

1. It’s a special pleasure to see Shah, because at time when lots of troubles elsewhere Iran is brightest spot in ME.

2. As to US, we have more troubles but fewer real dangers. Soviets are behaving, even if Chicoms are not.

3. In fact, one of our biggest headaches today is that our allies are constantly trying to get us to solve their disputes with other friendly countries (for example, Iran’s neighbors Pakistan and Turkey are doing so right now). We’re glad we don’t have this kind of problem with Iran.

4. We recognize Shah’s concern over potential Arab threat, but urge he not run too scared. Despite many tries since 1952 revolution, UAR hasn’t successfully expanded yet. Nor do we see much likelihood of Iraqi-UAR unity.

5. One of our big problems is to convince allies like Pakistan and Turkey that real way to insure their future security and stability is through nation-building.

6. This is why we’re so impressed with Shah’s start on reform. We consider especially important his new budget agency, civil service code, and plans for tax reform.

7. But modernization is a never-ending process, even in the US. Look at our urban renewal and poverty problems. Shah must stimulate his economy more too, to provide cushion for shock of reforms.

8. Shah will raise tanks, probably after complaining about Arab threat. If so, suggest you tell him we can’t provide tanks on top of present 5-year $300 million program. Because of MAP stringency, we’d have to sell him some. He should talk with McNaughton (who sees him this afternoon).

9. Remind Shah that our periodic carrier deployment into Indian Ocean designed largely with Iran in mind. Did Shah like recent carrier demonstration?

10. Finally, when Shah sees King of Morocco give him your regards and stimulate his interest in being reformer too.²

Bob Komer

1. Source: Johnson Library, National Security File, Country File, Iran, Shah’s Visit, 6/5/64. Secret.
2. A handwritten notation in Komer’s handwriting at this point on the source text reads: “Only Shah and his Ambassador, plus Talbot, Komer, and maybe Rusk will be present.” An unsigned, undated memorandum for the files in the Department of State files reads: “No Memorandum of Conversation was prepared on the conversation which took place between the President and the Shah of Iran on June 5, 1964.” (Department of State, S/S Conference Files: Lot 66 D 110, Vol. II, Visit of the Shah of Iran—Memcons, Sub. & Admin. Misc., CF 2409)