Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XXI, Near East Region; Arabian Peninsula

62. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom¹

Washington, June 10, 1965, 7:21 p.m.

7810. Ex-Aden Prime Minister Zein Baharoon, at start Leader Grant tour US, made following points in call on Assistant Secretary Talbot June 8:

1. Baharoon pessimistic about British efforts bring SAF to independence by 1968, anticipated HICOM would merely change his title to Ambassador at that time but would continue dictate to SAF government made up of feudal shaikhs and sultans. General form of government, unitary or otherwise, was of little importance, primary requirement being British goodwill to bring area to actual independence. Ridiculed proposed Constitutional Commission as having no authority and being of little use in determining desires population if British not aware of latter after 130 years in area.

2. Current terrorism clearly fostered by Cairo and connected to events in Yemen; would stop once Britain straightened up its relations with YAR.

3. Yemen-South Arabia union will not take place; Yemenis in Aden not in favor of such a union.

4. Faisal in fact seems desirous see Nasser remain in Yemen where he bogged down and being bled white. Nasser, for his part, clearly desires withdraw if possible without humiliation.

5. Concerning future of British military base, Baharoon said he and British had reached substantial agreement on its continuation. Additionally, alleged Zakaria Muhi-al-Din had specifically told him UAR not opposed to continuation of base provided it not used against Arab countries.

6. In summary, Baharoon predicted Aden could become “second Congo” in 1968 if more realistic and practical steps not taken by British to prepare for independence and if British did not rectify their relations with YAR. Without latter, successful independent life for SAF impossible.

7. Throughout conversation, Baharoon requested “greater activity” by US in Aden, London and Riyadh to bring about climate for successful Federation independence.

On June 10 Department conveyed gist of above (except last point) to British Embassy (Everett). Latter correctly commented that Baharoon devoid of specific recommendations for steps British should take prepare people for independence. British, Baharoon and others obviously continuing struggle with problem of lack of framework for administration of area aside from that provided by present feudal rulers. Everett also mentioned recent meeting Minister State Tomson with UAR Ambassador in which Egyptian unyielding on practically all points connected with southern Arabia. Ambassador stated categorically at that time that UAR not ready withdraw troops from Yemen until favorable situation developed that country.

London may also wish discuss Baharoon’s views with Foreign Office.

Rusk

1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964-66, POL 7 ADEN. Secret. Drafted by Moore, cleared by Davies and Judd, and approved by Talbot. Repeated to Cairo, Jidda, Taiz, and Aden.