Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, The Near and Middle East, Volume IX, Part 1

784A.02/5–1153:Telegram

No. 637
The Chargé in Israel (Russell) to the Department of State¹

confidential

Tel Aviv, July 11, 1953—3 p.m.

51. Timing and manner of announcement of move of Foreign Ministry to Jerusalem (Embtel 45)² by delivery of letters just as Foreign Ministry closing for week-end has caused deep resentment on part majority my colleagues. Embassy fears action may be interpreted in Arab countries as another example Israel Government uninfluenced by world opinion, or by position of other powers having interests in area, matter involving Israel-Arab relations. It is step of especial significance re United States because taken during period when Secretary of State known to be formulating policies and programs as result of his trip designed to ease tensions and improve conditions in area.

Department may wish consider steps which would demonstrate to Arabs that other nations not helpless to influence events in this area. Believe public statement should be made to Israel Government referring to original démarche requesting them not to move Foreign Ministry (Depcirctel 905)³ and expressing deep regret at action of Foreign Ministry which will make more difficult efforts by Secretary to work out solution of issue of Jerusalem. Might also announce that ending formulation of specific policy with respect Jerusalem Embassy Tel Aviv being instructed see officials of Foreign Ministry only at liaison office at Hakirya, Tel Aviv. Such step would of course involve likelihood Israeli Government would utilize this as occasion for shifting focus of all important discussions and negotiations to Washington, which it prefers and which Department has in past made efforts avoid. If step taken other powers having Missions here should be urged take similar action, though in case of smaller powers it is clear they would be placed at greater disadvantage.

Russell

1. Repeated to London, Paris, and Rome.
2. Telegram 45 from Tel Aviv, July 10, reported that the Embassy had that day received a letter from the Director General of the Foreign Ministry stating that the transfer of the Ministry to Jerusalem would take place on July 12. A liaison office would for the present be maintained at Hakirya in Tel Aviv for the convenience of diplomatic missions situated in Tel Aviv. The letter expressed the hope that in the course of time diplomatic missions now outside Jerusalem would move there. (124.84A5/7–1053)
3. Document 576.