252. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Jordan1
397. Embtel 272.2 Inform King and Prime Minister we have been giving careful consideration to HKJ proposal for financing two new brigades. As King and Rifai know we continue our firm support for Jordan. We believe however we will be in better position reach decision [Page 428] regarding these brigades when we know results of deliberations of proposed high level SC meeting on ME. If this meeting takes place the security of all states in ME, and especially Jordan and Lebanon, against indirect aggression will be a principal topic of discussion and it is US intention to seek in SC measures and arrangements designed to safeguard ME states against this threat. SC deliberations may thus have important implications for future security of ME states and accordingly we believe we should hold final decision on request for two additional brigades in abeyance pending results SC meeting.
You should inform King and Rifai that we do not agree that BP “finished” as northern tier defense arrangement. On the contrary, during London BP meeting US strengthened its relationship with northern tier countries and intends increase its support of the defense of these nations. We furthermore doubt that several of countries mentioned by Rifai would be willing join suggested organization. Accordingly while we very much appreciate receiving King’s suggestion it is our view it would not be desirable to seek new regional defense organization at this time.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 785.5/8–358. Top Secret. Drafted by Rockwell, Rountree, and Dulles.↩
- Document 233.↩