891.00/1995: Telegram
The Minister in Iran ( Dreyfus ) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 23—2:47 p.m.]
198. My 187.33 Majlis yesterday gave Soheily Government vote of confidence of 89 out of 99 Deputies present. Were 8 abstentions and 2 blank ballots but no contrary votes. Two Deputies demanded Government explain why American troops have come to Iran without formal agreement having been reached. Prime Minister replied that Deputies need have no fears in this regard as negotiations for an agreement are under way.34 Deputy Teymour attacked Sheridan35 in bitter terms stating food situation36 has deteriorated since Sheridan’s arrival, charging Sheridan with incompetence and demanding his removal. This Deputy also attacked transport regulations and organizations set up by Iranian Allied Transport Board. Prime Minister in his speech promised investigation and report on these matters and spoke in very favorable terms of Iran’s relations with United States.
While Soheily is at present receiving support of press and Majlis almost all observers predict his Government will not last for more than 2 months. I am not sure this will prove the case. If he can weather storm for a few weeks until wheat begins to arrive from United States and until certain economic and financial plans come to fruition lie may be able to take personal credit for achievements of substantial benefit to country.
- Dated February 17, 3 p.m., not printed: it reported appointment of the new Cabinet with Ali Soheily as Prime Minister (891.002/379).↩
- For correspondence regarding proposed agreement covering the presence of American troops in Iran, see pp. 453 ff.↩
- Joseph P. Sheridan, American Food and Supply Adviser to the Iranian Government.↩
- For correspondence on this subject, see pp. 600 ff.↩