Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XXXVI, Energy Crisis, 1969–1974

285. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Saudi Arabia¹

Washington, January 21, 1974, 1544Z.

12869. Subject: Oil Boycott. Ref: Jidda 329.²

1. Approach taken in reftel is absolutely correct.

2. In addition, you should tell Saqqaf and Fahd that if the boycott is not lifted by the time the Israelis are ready to withdraw, we may very well recommend that Israel not commence its withdrawals. In addition, under these circumstances we would be forced to stop all further efforts toward peace in the Middle East. You should emphasize that we have fulfilled every promise that we have made. It is now up to the Saudis and their Arab colleagues to keep their own commitments. You cannot be too strong in your representations.

3. The above has been personally approved by the President.

4. If it is not possible to deliver message in Saudi Arabia January 22, it should be delivered as soon as possible January 23.

Kissinger

1. Source: Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, Kissinger Papers, Box CL 207, Geopolitical Files, Saudi Arabia, 4 Jan–6 Feb 74. Secret; Flash; Cherokee; Exdis; Handle as Nodis. Drafted from a text by Kissinger received from the White House. The White House draft, January 21, is in the National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Kissinger Office Files, Box 139, Country Files, Middle East, Saudi Arabia, Dec 73–Feb 74.
2. Document 284.