501.BB Palestine/7–3148: Telegram
The Consul General at Jerusalem (Macdonald) to the Secretary of State
priority
1142. Appointment Dayan to replace Shaltiel as Commander Sixth Brigade widely viewed indication Jews anticipate renewal fighting Jerusalem. Dayan described as “fighter” while Shaltiel considered “administrator and politician”. Above opinion shared by UN observers attached to HQ Jewish Forces here and Belgian and French members Truce Commission. Shaltiel will resume position as Chief Intelligence Israel Army held before assignment Jerusalem command.
Diminishing confidence permanence present truce noted throughout Jerusalem. Firing including rifle automatic and occasionally mortars has increased considerably last three days. Persons exposing selves in view enemy lines now fired on regularly. Officer Consulate General yesterday observed Arab Legion convoy with fresh troops entering Old City. Truce Commission has received reliable reports Jews are tunneling under Old City walls vicinity Jaffa gate. This activity continuing up to present.
Consulate General feels appointment Dayan serves two-fold purpose: Providing Jerusalem with Commander capable launching strong attack on Arabs in Old City and man able direct any punitive measures considered necessary against IZL and Stern.