Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XVIII, Arab-Israeli Dispute, 1964–1967

249. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Jordan¹

Washington, November 4, 1965, 10:35 a.m.

197. Amman’s 241,² last paragraph.

1. FonMin Nuseibeh during October 6 talk with Secretary said GOJ convinced Israel had already attained capability producing nuclear bomb, also predicted Israel’s rocket program had advanced to point GOI by March 1966 would demonstrate capability firing rockets that could carry nuclear warheads. Copies relevant memcons being pouched. Embassy should convey following orally to Nuseibeh:

2. Secretary Rusk has asked me tell you USG continues watch very closely possible nuclear weapons capability and acquisition by Near Eastern countries. We are most strongly opposed to idea nuclear proliferation in Near East as elsewhere. We have no evidence that Israel or any other Near Eastern state is in position to develop nuclear weapons in near future or that they have decided develop or otherwise acquire them. USG vigilance this matter will continue as will our efforts secure effective worldwide nuclear non-proliferation agreement. Meanwhile Arab Governments particularly UAR could take very important step toward elimination danger nuclear spread in Near East by undertaking accept IAEA safeguards on existing and future nuclear facilities since this would clearly put pressure on Israel do likewise.

Rusk

1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964–66, DEF 12–4 ISR. Secret. Drafted by Wolle on October 29; cleared by George D. Monk of INR/RES, John P. Trevithick of SCI, Beam, Symmes, and Davies; and approved by Rusk. Repeated to Tel Aviv.
2. Telegram 241 from Amman, October 25, reported a conversation with Foreign Minister Nuseibeh in which Nuseibeh referred to his meeting with Rusk at the UN General Assembly in New York and expressed the hope that in due course Barnes would have a message for him concerning this. (Ibid., REF 3 UNRWA) Memoranda of the conversation between Rusk and Nuseibeh are ibid., Conference Files: Lot 66 D 347, CF 2548.