501.BB Palestine/12–1448: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Douglas) to the Acting Secretary of State
us urgent
5244. For Lovett. See mytel 5225, December 13.1 As anticipated Bevin asked me to call today to discuss future moves with respect Palestine. Expressly concerned over whole problem Middle East considering that internal situation Egypt constitutes grave danger as trouble there would be exploited by Communists and situation might develop similar to that China imperilling western powers Middle East. He urged strategic considerations be taken to account in determining limitation Palestine boundaries. I replied I had doubts expressed in Embtel about too early extra-lateral understanding re frontiers; Bevin answered that at some time he would have to give advice Arabs and wanted this advice be consonant with US views though did not now want necessarily US–UK agreement. He invited me to lunch with him and British Chiefs of staff Monday next in order to convey their views, particularly on strategic considerations, prior to my departure for US. In view I shall express no US opinions but seek only British views, see no objection here.
Bevin hopes that US member Conciliation Commission will be man of high standing and character who would work energetically for an early settlement Palestine boundaries. If US makes first appointment pattern will be set for French and Turkish appointments.
Shall report more fully after Monday’s meeting by cable or orally on arrival Washington.
- Not printed.↩