File No. 867.48/337
The Chargé in Turkey (Philip) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 19, 8.15 a. m.]
1948. Peet desires me to communicate that according to information received from trustworthy sources it appears that in spite of the best efforts of the relief committees it is impossible to adequately reach all who are needing their ministrations. Although present [Page 933] system of distribution of relief is giving excellent results and is saving thousands of lives, it should be remembered that the food supplies of the country are being rapidly depleted. In spite of the best efforts of the committees, impossible as it is to fully reach the growing numbers of the needy, the number dying from hunger and disease is being augmented with terrible rapidity. In view of the above facts would it not be possible, before it is too late, that the United States and other neutrals, in the name of humanity, should induce Germany and Austria-Hungary to oblige their ally, the Turks, to cease further persecutions and deportations and to allow the organization of relief committees with freedom to work as occasion demands among the deported people? The susceptibilities of the Turkish Government might be met by the appointment of a Turkish delegate to cooperate with each committee. Such action by Germany and Austria in a matter of this nature ought not to be considered as foreign interference in the domestic affairs of Turkey.