501.BB Palestine/6–3749: Telegram
Mr. Raymond A. Hare to the Secretary of State
Palun 234. [Here follows the first paragraph dealing with answers to questions from Syria given by the Palestine Conciliation Commission at its meeting with Arab delegates on June 25.]
2. Essence Arab argument regarding territorial views ran as follows: Arab delegates would be willing further to discuss territorial matters if Israeli delegation returned to protocol of May 12 by basing its proposals upon it and if PCC undertook to pass judgment on Israeli and presumably Arab proposals in connection therewith.
Arabs argued Jews have done nothing to implement protocol. Paragraph 11 GA resolution December 11 reference refugees could not be subject of negotiation as it was GA imperative. Jewish territorial proposals under May 12 protocol were not “adjustments” but annexations. Arabs consider such proposals as inclusion western Galilee or Gaza as violation of protocol. Arabs also consider that Jewish agreement take Gaza refugees if Gaza strip is ceded to Israel as contrary [Page 1187] GA resolution December 11. Arabs will not make such rash proposals but have complied with protocol as shown by their memos of May 18 and May 21. Arabs have already approached territorial question in their May 21 memo. PCC has duty deciding whether Arab proposal is within terms of protocol.
Arabs added regarding resettlement they were prepared to examine as soon as they knew how many refugees did not wish to return on basis completely free choice. Lebanese delegate specifically stated such refugees would find Arab countries ready to take them. Foregoing represents highlights of three-hour meeting. Summary record being pouched.