176. Telegram From the Embassy in Algeria to the Department of State1
2168.
Algiers, April 14, 1988, 1704Z
SUBJECT
- Kuwait Hijacking—Negotiations Status.
- 1.
- Secret/NOFORN—Entire text.
- 2.
- General Lakehal Ayat debriefed Ambassador [less than 1 line not declassified] at airport on status of negotiations as of 1500 local (1400 GMT) April 14. Ambassador opened discussion by reiterating U.S. opposition to any deals which would involve freedom for terrorists. Lakehal Ayat acknowledged U.S. position and, while not specifically addressing it, made clear his view that U.S. policy was ill advised.
- 3.
- Lakehal said that situation was calm. A doctor has been aboard the aircraft which would help further ease tensions. Lakehal said the terrorists remain adamant and would not accept any solution which did not involve the release of the Dawa prisoners. They were dedicated and well-trained and, in Lakehal’s view, would sooner destroy themselves and the hostages than yield on Dawa prisoner issue. Lakehal described Kuwait’s position as also hard.
- 4.
- Despite this gloomy set of circumstances Lakehal did not appear discouraged. He thought the terrorists were quote calming down unquote (but not softening up) and he hinted at possible Kuwaiti flexibility. Under questioning he offered view that Kuwait would have to commit to some future action vis-à-vis prisoners in order to unblock situation. He thought Kuwaiti’s would have to have face-saving formula. He speculated vaguely about the possibility of a hostage and terrorist release now, followed after a few months by specific movement on prisoner issue at which time U.S. hostages in Lebanon could be released as well.
- 5.
- Lakehal said that Algerians were pressing the terrorists hard (he went through the negotiating litany). He did not say whether Algerians were also pressing Kuwait but it would seem clear that they are.
- 6.
- Ambassador asked for Lakehal’s best judgment as to how long negotiations could continue before terrorists would become frustrated and resort to Larnaca-style violence. Lakehal thought situation would hold until about Saturday.2
- 7.
- [2 lines not declassified] He said, however, that there were no repeat no terrorists aboard Kuwaiti flight who had also been on 1985 TWA847 hijacking. (One Algerian negotiator involved in 1985 event has been in aircraft and so informed Lakehal.) He will double check.
- 8.
- Beirut minimized considered.
Johnstone