771.00/8–1753: Telegram

The Diplomatic Agent at Tangier ( Satterthwaite ) to the Department of State 1

secret priority

72. Reference telegrams Rabat, Paris and Tangier on Moroccan crisis.

Following are Legation’s comments on latest developments:

1.
It appears French are now too deeply committed in Glaoui’s maneuvers either to withhold support from new “imam” or to fail take drastic action if Sultan should maintain his present refusal Sbaldahirs. Latter’s abdication now seems probable if he is not deposed first.
2.
French in name modernizing feudal country have instigated tribal chieftains stir up discord on regional racial and religious grounds. Reputable sources consider Sultan proud intelligent individual enjoying widespread popularity. He has shown considerable personal courage in face French pressure and seems actually have acted as stabilizing factor in present conflict. Sultan had apparently not refused approve legislation granting increased Moroccan participation in local self-government, as alleged by French, but only delayed so-called reforms which gave French residents equal status and disproportionate participation.
3.

We therefore now appear be witnessing practical extinction last vestiges sovereignty ancient nation whose monarch and people never [Page 619] fail recall historic ties with United States. Fact we did not respond by any gesture to repeated enquiries from palace has enabled French convey wholly false impression United States position.

As seen here we have been placed in position of supporting practical annexation nation whose sovereignty we no less than French are bound by valid international instruments respect. United States was also symbol that some hope lay in eventual recognition of legitimate aspirations thru cooperation with anti-Commie West. There is reason fear now that nationalists may be finally driven into arms of Commies.

4.
Repercussions on Arab-Asian bloc and their effect on forthcoming General Assembly session are obvious.

Satterthwaite
  1. This telegram was repeated to Paris and Rabat.