233. Memorandum From Robert W. Komer of the National Security Council Staff to the President’s Special Assistant for National Security Affairs (Bundy)0
McGB—
Though formal UN sponsorship disengagement Yemen now seems delayed till at least 13 May by incredible UN lassitude, we’re reasonably confident nothing will blow in interim. Anyway, Von Horn’s presence in area1 should have calming effect, even though he is restricted to survey mission.
I have been pressing State to tell Hart flatly to get Saudis to stop running dangerous risk by trying to cram last minute supplies into royalist hands. I finally got action. In light Saudi actions I am flatly opposed to sending planes before Faysal meets our terms (and doubt this signal would have much impact on Jordan situation anyway).
As for Nasser, he’s probably so anxious to get some troops out of Yemen and up to Sinai that we doubt he’ll bomb Saudis again. He will also be out of town, which is a good sign. In fact, we see good chance Nasser may announce some troop withdrawals shortly, at which point we’ll then press Saudis to announce cessation of aid.
- Source: Kennedy Library, National Security Files, Countries Series, Yemen, 5/63. Secret.↩
- Telegram 147 to Sao Paulo for Bunker (who was in Brazil on a personal matter), May 1, reported that U Thant had dispatched UNTSO Chief of Staff Von Horn to the Near East for reconnaissance and report. Von Horn visited Cairo April 30-May 1, and was expected to arrive in Jidda on May 2 for discussions with Faysal and proceed to Yemen on May 3. (Department of State, Central Files, POL 26 YEMEN)↩