867n.404Wailing Wall/228
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs (Shaw)
In replying to the Zionist Delegation the Secretary said that he appreciated the remarks which had been made by the spokesmen of the Delegation. Needless to say, he wished to express sympathy at the blow sustained by the Jews in Palestine and at the suffering which they were undergoing. The Secretary said that he had many old and dear friends among those interested in the Zionist Movement. His duty, however, was to protect American citizens. He was glad of an opportunity to tell the Delegation of the steps which had been taken by the Department with this object in view. Our Consul at Jerusalem had been very active and without waiting for instructions had at once appealed to the local authorities for protection. On Sunday we had instructed the Consul to emphasize the importance of this protection. Yesterday the Secretary said he had taken the unusual step of instructing our Embassy at London to urge upon the British Government that the measures taken for the restoration of order in Palestine and for the protection of American lives and property should be of the broadest character. From the reports which we have received it is clear that this is just what the British are doing. Troops have already arrived and many more are arriving momentarily. The Secretary concluded by saying that we would do all that was possible for the protection of Americans and for ultimate relief.