501.BB Palestine/7–1548: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Douglas) to the Secretary of State
niact
3205. FonOff was disturbed to learn from telegram from Cadogan sent July 14 that USUN is considering possibility of permitting Soviet observers in Palestine as a means of bringing USSR into line re US resolution.
2. FonOff has just learned by telephone from NY that USUN is not prepared to accept Chinese amendment to effect that both parties [Page 1226] be called on to secure a political solution in consultation with Mediator and that so far as Cadogan can judge USUN is discussing with Soviet delegation question observers.
3. FonOff feels impelled to take adamant stand against Soviet observers whose presence would confirm Arabs views re sinister character UN so far as Arabs are concerned and possibly strengthen pro-Soviet minority in Israel. FonOff believes that between Chinese suggestion and wooing USSR first alternative offers the sounder course of action.
4. It seems to me that having stood out against Soviet observers in past, if US accepts them at this moment when gravity of Berlin problem can not be exaggerated, US retreat re Soviet observers might be interpreted by USSR as forerunner of further concessions by US to Soviet demands.
Sent Dept 3205, repeat USUN.