690D.91/8–1353: Telegram
The Ambassador in Pakistan (Hildreth) to the Department of State1
151. Embassy believes that in considering US attitude toward Kashmir situation Department will wish bear in mind following:
- 1.
- Pakistan frustration probably more intense now than ever before. Popular attitude toward India and Nehru has changed 180 degrees from unprecedented high two weeks ago to present new low. GOP in dilemma; realize folly and fatality any direct action and yet sees no hope now for peaceful and acceptable solution. Officials admit helplessness.
- 2.
- Although Delhi in better position comment than we, it appears from here that change regime Kashmir increases Commie influence and hence Commie threat both Pakistan and India. This point has been made in Pakistan press and by Pakistan officials though not to any emphatic degree. Today’s Times of Karachi says editorially: “Union with which the Indian communalists and Commies speak and the unanimity with which they have charged the US for organizing a conspiracy against India and inciting Sheikh Abdullah should serve as a warning to that country which is so anxious to please and placate India.”
Once Ali–Nehru talks either cancelled or fail, Paks apparently plan appeal again to SC. At this point their attention will likely turn from India to US and we will probably face revival of attacks on US for failure get UN action against India. Editorial comment quoted above forewarns return to critical line toward US for “partiality” to India. Dawn editorial yesterday described new UN approach as “final test of much-vaunted Anglo-American love of democratic and human values.”
Embassy believes we must be prepared for such turn of events.
I believe above consideration impose obligation consider most carefully future US position and actions regarding Kashmir. Although I do not have specific recommendations to make at this time, problem is of course constantly and uppermost in our minds.
- This telegram was repeated for information to London and New Delhi.↩