328. Telegram From the Embassy in Saudi Arabia to the Department of State1
206. Subj: (S) Meeting With Crown Prince Fahd. Ref: State 4054.2
1. Secret-entire text.
2. Ambassador Eilts, Special Counselor Sabbagh, and I met with Crown Prince Fahd at his home in Jidda for nearly two hours on the evening of January 9 to comply with instructions reftel. Fahd was most cordial although he expressed strong disappointment and great concern at the continuing attacks by President Sadat. He singled out the recent article in “October Magazine” as causing great concern throughout SAG. He stated that it was extremely difficult to restrain his editors and newspaper writers from replying to the attacks but he had given specific instructions that no rpt no attacks on Egypt or President Sadat would appear in the Saudi press. He reiterated throughout the meeting, at times in almost emotional tones, that he wished Sadat success; that he would be the first to call and congratulate him if he were able to find a solution to the Palestinian and Jerusalem problems. He added that he prayed each day for President Sadat’s success despite the abuse which continued to come from Egypt.
[Page 1067]3. Fahd discussed the general strategic situation in the area, including both the plight of the hostages and the Afghanistan invasion. He expressed concern about the hostages, SAG’s continuing willingness and desire to help, and admiration for President Carter’s handling of the problem.
4. With respect to Afghanistan, he added that this was simply a continuation of the Soviets’ aggressive moves and he was glad to see the U.S. recognize the danger. He stated that he had encouraged Somalia to cooperate with USG in the granting of base facilities.
5. With respect to the steps that the U.S. should take for a comprehensive Middle East peace, Fahd reiterated the familiar theme that USG must take a strong stand with respect to Israel; that we should not continue to provide unlimited economic and military support as long as Israel continued its expansionist policies. He stated he welcomed Ambassador Linowitz’s coming visit and hoped that some progress could be made in the autonomy talks, although he remained extremely skeptical in the absence of a major shift in USG support policies for Israel.
6. Ambassador Eilts has not seen this message. He will give a more detailed report3 to the President and the Secretary upon his return to Washington.
7. Department please pass to AmEmbassy Amman for Ambassador Eilts.