357.AC/3–1750: Telegram
The United States Representative on the Palestine Conciliation Commission (Palmer) to the Secretary of State
390. Palun 340. We have given thought to considerations raised by Department in Unpal 2461 and remain of opinion present situation requires action by PCC along lines proposed Palun 338.2 Alternative Department suggests in paragraph 5 Unpal 246 is almost exactly procedure Commission has followed during past months and in particular during discussions of PCC proposal for Gaza committee. Results have been entirely negative and we do not believe that following such procedure with respect to larger issues will be any more likely produce results. We therefore feel calculate risk to which Department refers should be taken. If proposal accepted we would of course take every precaution avoid prejudicing outcome any other talks with Jordan or others which Israel might be engaged in (paragraph 3 Unpal 246). We are aware also in speaking of full support three PCC governments that none of parties can be forced accept proposal (penultimate paragraph Unpal 246). Boisanger states French Foreign Office, in interest stability ME, will go as far as US in supporting [garble] PCC proposal. We feel it most important that Department indicate clearly its support for PCC proposal in Washington and in US missions Israel and Arab countries, as well as in Paris and Ankara, at same time proposal is submitted to parties here. Yalcin and Boisanger feel strongly that at time of submitting proposal PCC should make substance known [Page 809] to world through press release. They believe publicity for such reasonable PCC proposal, with emphasis on fact procedure is in response to repeated requests of parties, will strengthen position of those in each government who would favor acceptance. They anticipate favorable editorial comment on PCC suggestion in world press which will encourage reasonable elements in governments both sides. They are convinced that unless such a formal approach with accompanying press release is made, there is great danger of a hasty, ill-considered, unfavorable reply. USDel shares this view but will delay consideration of press release until Department’s opinion received. Boisanger has planned for some time make short trip ME to review situation with government leaders. He feels present is opportune time and that new procedure when proposed by PCC can profitably be discussed during visit. I had hoped make similar visit without, however, turning these trips into Commission tour. Discussion of this question in PCC leaves us with three alternatives: (1) PCC tour of capitals, (2) short trip by Boisanger as PCC chairman accompanied by principal secretary, (3) short trip by USRep as chairman accompanied by principal secretary. USDel believes after thorough consideration that PCC tour would accomplish no tangible results and might even delay consideration of proposed procedure. On other hand chairman may be able have useful discussions. His visit would establish precedent which succeeding chairmen could follow at later time if desirable. On balance we feel therefore it is preferable for either Boisanger or USRep to undertake short trip now as chairman and that it would be helpful if Department, in indicating US support for PCC proposals, could inform governments concerned that it is understood chairman will discuss procedure with them on Commission’s behalf. Boisanger feels that if he is to go as chairman French Foreign Office will be more receptive if Department indicated to Quai d’Orsay suggestion for such procedure originated with USDel. Boisanger willing to go but he and Yalcin favor passing chairmanship to USRep.
With reference Department’s question (Unpal 246) re Eban’s view of French position, I have observed nothing either in Boisanger’s attitude or attitude Foreign Office officials in Paris to substantiate Eban’s or Rafael’s claim. Boisanger has stated he fully believes in desirability Israel-Jordan agreement. He is, of course, sceptical, as we are, of any substantial agreement between Jordan and Israel being accomplished in near future outside framework of larger peace offensive and sees danger in PCC remaining inactive while awaiting outcome. Department is best able judge however whether Eban’s comments are accurate reflection French-British competition ME.