684A.85322/11–1153: Telegram
No. 727
The Chargé in Jordan (Lynch) to the Department of State1
225. Bunger and I summoned in audience by King today, November 10, who wished to discuss Yarmuk and TVA plan. The King first inquired whether there was to be a delay in the development of the Yarmuk as a result of the new so-called broader plan. I replied that United States was now thinking in terms of the plan to which Johnston mission had given its support on recent visit. King then said that there was no possibility now or for years to come of cooperation or collaboration direct or indirect by Jordan with Israel. He reminded us of Israeli attitude as exemplified by organized armed massacres and elimination of whole villages by Israeli troops and pointed out, too, that Israel’s attitude was clearly shown [Page 1411] by recent Upper Jordan diversion attempt. He asked why could we not go on with the scheme as originally envisaged.
I explained the necessity for the President to go to the Congress to obtain money for the project and I emphasized the necessity to show that the money was to be spent in the most economic manner, that all the waters of the Jordan were to be developed and that the greatest good had to be done for the greatest possible number of persons. I explained that there were elements in the original plan which would be common to the broad scheme and Bunger supported me by pointing out the advantages of unified use of waters.
King then said that situation in his country daily becoming worse and that growth of Communism among all refugees, both in and out of camps and in the villages, was on the increase to most disturbing degree. He was desperately anxious to prevent any blow-up and to hold his people back. He feared he could not long do so if Israeli aggressions continued. Even now by using his influence in restraining manner he was playing with fire. To support any action which could be twisted even into the appearance of cooperation with Israel would mean that he would be swept away and so would the better elements in this country. He felt it of the greatest urgency that something be done at the earliest possible moment to settle refugees but it could not take the form laid down in the desk study. . . .
I pointed out that the engineering survey was still in progress and expressed the hope that the King would not take at this time a completely adamant attitude against the broad scheme. He replied by saying that it was a waste of time not to state his position now. It was then explained to him that the engineering survey must be completed before any kind of plan was adopted and I urged that at least he not close the door any more at this time than had already been done by his government. I asked him at least to wait until he saw what the results of the engineering survey were. Bunger pointed out that certain aspects of the work which would be common to any plan which might be adopted could be begun within comparatively few months. The King expressed the view that the beginning of such work would in some measure relieve existing tensions. He made it clear, however, throughout the interview which lasted one hour that the plan as presented in the TVA desk study was not acceptable to Jordan.
Comment: It was apparent to me that this summons by the King was for the purpose of conveying the final considered opinion of the King and his government on the TVA plan. In order fully to appreciate views set forth by young King in the interview (views enunciated by him with grace, understanding and considerable [Page 1412] force), I urge that this telegram be read in conjunction with Embtels 771, 102, 129 and 152.2
I think that the time has now come to recognize that, despite the extremely able and persuasive presentation of the TVA plan by Mr. Johnston, the reception accorded him in Jordan was, in fact, the minimum demanded by the requirements of traditional Arab hospitality. I feel I would be remiss in my duty if I did not make it clear to the Department that in my view if the door in Jordan ever was open it is now shut tight.