Office of the Historian

88. Circular Telegram From the Department of State to Certain Diplomatic Missions1

Washington, February 9, 1956—7:56 p.m.

541. Since UK is already committed by treaty to defend Jordan and Egypt if attacked, UK effort has naturally been to obtain as firm commitment from US as possible to use force if necessary in event of Arab-Israeli hostilities. While US is no less anxious than UK to prevent hostilities and thwart aggression, we pointed out to UK that our formal commitment is in executive declaration and constitutional [Page 161] procedures re use of armed force must be followed. Possibility of Congressional resolution authorizing President in advance to use force in ME, somewhat similar to resolution on Formosa, has been considered, but this approach presents difficulties. Our opponent in Formosa issue was clearly understood but we are endeavoring maintain good relations with both sides in Arab-Israeli dispute and definition of aggressor will inevitably be difficult.

During talks with Eden, it became apparent that UK was somewhat more inclined towards strong reaffirmation of Tripartite Declaration than we were. Our position was partly due to our belief that Declaration has become somewhat outmoded since at time of issuance, US, UK and France could largely control shipments of arms to area. This is no longer true since USSR has entered arms picture. Additional reason for different US and UK approach results from our respective constitutional procedures on use of armed forces.

Addressees should bear foregoing in mind when discussing Tripartite Declaration. Impression should not be given that we no longer adhere to it. It was cited in joint declaration at end of Eisenhower–Eden talks.2 Moreover, UK–US expect start talks with French this week on implementation.3 Purpose this telegram merely to suggest some caution in discussions by US representatives abroad because US does not have same treaty relationship and corresponding formal commitments as do British.

Dulles
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 684A.86/2–956. Secret. Sent to London, Amman, Paris, Tel Aviv, Beirut, Damascus, Cairo, And Baghdad. Drafted by Allen and approved and signed by Dulles.↩
  2. See footnote 2, Document 65.↩
  3. See footnote 7, supra.↩