890E.00/197: Telegram
The Minister in Egypt (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 13—9:56 a.m.]
2066. My 2041, November 11, 9 p.m. Casey has just informed me that he is leaving immediately for Beirut as situation in Lebanon appears to be deteriorating and he wants to be on spot to evaluate conflicting reports emanating from area. If use of force by French continues he is inclined to use British military to restore order. He expects to return to Cairo tomorrow.
Casey informs me that British Government has demanded of French the immediate removal of Helleu, the liberation of the imprisoned members of the Lebanese Government, and a conference in London. If these demands are not met, Anglo-French relations, he implied, may be endangered.
Sent to Department repeated to Beirut.