501.BB Palestine/12–1048: Telegram
The Special Representative of the United States in Israel, Temporarily at Paris (McDonald) to the Presidents Special Counsel (Clifford)
6246. From McDonald. For White House only. Personal attention Clifford. Before returning Tel Aviv tonight feel impelled repeat my previous high praise of efforts made by our delegates to advance President’s Palestine policy but also my earlier warnings lest United States unintentionally through technical moves become involved in threat of sanctions against Israel. Despite optimistic report re prospects peace negotiations made by Bunche, just back from Middle East, British [Page 1659] demanded December 8 emergency Security Council meeting to force Israel withdrawals to October 14 line Negev. This was dangerous maneuver to embarrass United States and other countries urging favorable action Israel admission United Nations this Assembly. United States response made in Security Council sub-committee by Ross without opportunity consultation Dulles or Jessup gave partial United States moral support British latest maneuver to indict Israel as aggressor.1 United States technical cooperation with such United Kingdom tactics could destroy President’s peace hopes Middle East. If United Kingdom were told unequivocally that United States will not be party sanctions or moves that direction, I believe United Kingdom might finally accept in good faith viable Israel as reality and encourage instead of discourage Abdullah, Farouk, and others make peace. Central fact remains United Kingdom must desire peace and convince Arab states of such desire before any peace becomes possible. [McDonald.]