129. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Iran1
108214. Please deliver following message to Shah: “Your Imperial Majesty:
[Page 270]Now that the British have reached their decision on the future of their military presence in the Persian Gulf, I would like to share some preliminary thoughts with you on the situation there.
In the first place, let me stress, as I have said before, that the United States attaches importance to the future security of the Gulf. We would not wish to see outside powers, bent on promoting their interests by creating trouble, intrude into the area. I believe you share these views.
The United States interest in the security of the area does not, however, envisage that we would wish either to replace the British military presence or participate in any new regional security arrangement. The United States looks to the countries of the area to ensure the area’s security.
The United States is also, as you know, deeply interested in the economic and social progress of the Persian Gulf area. Here again, it is our hope that the countries of the area will take the lead in cooperating with each other to forward this progress.
I am aware that there are a number of specific problems at issue between the states bordering on the Gulf. It is of the utmost importance that these problems be solved so that all concerned may proceed to work on fundamental matters looking to the future stability and prosperity of the area. Their solution will require patience, understanding and a high degree of statesmanship. In this connection, I was delighted to learn of your recent talks with the Ruler of Kuwait. Since so much will depend on the maintenance of the cordial ties and mutual understanding between Iran and Saudi Arabia which you have done so much to develop, we have welcomed plans for an early meeting between you and King Feisal.
I am encouraged and comforted, Your Majesty, about the future of the Persian Gulf area because you and our Saudi friends are there. Your Majesty’s leadership will, I know, continue to be directed at realizing our shared desire for peace, stability and progress. Ambassador Meyer has informed me of his conversations with you on these matters, and I look forward to hearing from Under Secretary Rostow of his talk with you next week. I hope we can continue to stay in touch as the situation unfolds.
With my warmest personal regards.
Sincerely,
Lyndon B. Johnson”
- Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files, 1967-69, POL 33 PERSIAN GULF. Secret; Immediate; Exdis. Drafted by Eliot on January 31; cleared by Brewer and Saunders, and in draft by Battle and Katzenbach; and approved by Rockwell. Repeated to Dhahran for Ambassador Eilts, and to Jidda, Kuwait, and New Delhi for Rostow.↩