367N.11/72a: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Consul General at Jerusalem (Morris)
Department approves measures you have taken, as reported in your May 18, noon, with view to protection of American nationals.
[Page 443]You are, of course, aware of the widespread interest in Jewish circles in this country in the Palestine situation; the files of the Consulate General will indicate the care and attention which the Department has given to this problem in previous instances in which disturbances have arisen. In view of these considerations and bearing in mind the growing tenseness of the situation, as reported in your May 22, 6 p.m., I wish to impress upon you the great importance which we attach to your acting vigorously and promptly with the local authorities in requesting adequate protection for American nationals in any situation which may arise. We have full confidence that you will act accordingly in seeing that such protection is afforded.