501.BB Palestine/7–1148: Telegram
The Consul General at Jerusalem (Macdonald) to the Secretary of State
1061. Cynical attitude towards United Nations and increasing demand for incorporation new Jerusalem within state of Israel now apparent here. Immediately following May 14 projected international status for Jerusalem was accepted by Jewish officials and people but prior beginning truce and during cease-fire noticeable shift in attitude occurred which will probably be accentuated with resumption fighting.
In addition to private conversations, following public statements illustrate trend: Decision by Jerusalem community council’s committee for municipal affairs request Israel Government press for inclusion Jerusalem Jewish state; statement in Tel Aviv by Mayor Jerusalem that since city neglected by United Nations no choice remains but ask Israel take over authority; speech by Haganah Jerusalem commander stating “we shall fight to last man among us for our survival and our capital city”; warning by Stern gang to US, France and Belgium that it will fight any forces sent to internationalize city.
Jews justify claim to Jerusalem by pointing to failure United [Page 1213] Nations take effective action protect city or establish government. Maintain Israel forces only ones which have defended city from Moslems and now in fact occupy most of city.
Accompanying above attitude is feeling among local Jews that they must depend entirely on selves and readiness to adopt whatever measures necessary achieve victory. Apparent Christian indifference to plight of holy city often mentioned and authorities appear willing take any military action necessary regardless possible destruction old city.
Consul General feels official demand for inclusion new Jerusalem in Jew state may soon be made and that possibility all out attack on old city in near future should not be discounted.