867N.01/0–2849: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Egypt 1
635. You are authorized present substance Deptel 626, June 25, to FonMin as aide-mémoire, adding fol additional considerations:
USG firmly convinced Gaza strip proposal forms basis important contribution to final settlement Palestine problem as well as constructive approach to solution grave humanitarian problem of refugees, and notes with appreciation FonMin’s assurances (urtel 628, June 27) that Egypt prepared give serious consideration to any plan designed as humanitarian measure and susceptible of bringing stability to area.
USG is not unmindful of considerations prompting FonMin’s concern re disposition and future well being of refugees in Gaza strip (urtel para 4) if Israel shld assume responsibility such refugees. If Egypt so desires, USG is prepared seek fullest info from Israeli Govt re specific plans underlying Israeli proposal, including future status refugees as Israeli cits. USG is also prepared advocate establishment appropriate international supervision to insure necessary guarantees welfare refugees are observed.
USG recalls with deep appreciation that Egypt, by its constructive action as first state to conclude armistice agreement, gave necessary impetus to conclusion of hostilities in NE. We are deeply hopeful that Egypt, recognizing earnest desire Near Eastern peoples and international community for restoration peace and stability Near East, is now prepared give similar stimulus to final settlement outstanding issues by entering into early discussions with Israel re Gaza proposal. USG reiterates that, if so requested, it stands ready to facilitate such discussions by all means at its disposal.
Rpt reply to London and to Bern for USDel Lausanne.
- This telegram was repeated to London as No. 2223 and to Bern for the American Delegation at Lausanne.↩