Telegram on Israeli Concerns Regarding
UAR-Israel Military Balance
(October 16, 1963)
This is a telegram from the Department of State to the Embassy in Israel
addressing Israeli security concerns.
Eyes only for Acting Chief of Mission from Secretary. I am disturbed by
indications reftel and conversations between Department officers and Israel
Embassy that Israeli concern with security leading GOI endeavor broaden
scope November 12 talks I proposed to Mrs. Meir. GOI apparently seeking
full-scale review of Israel-UAR military balance as preliminary to 1)
establishment procedure for joint military planning and regular military
consultations and 2) requests for additional weaponry. Our failure clearly
define limits of talks now might lead GOI assume our silence reflects
tacit acceptance Israeli proposals and could result in serious erosion
US position set forth in President's letter October 3.
You should inform FonMin Director-General Yahil, or if appropriate,
Prime Minister Eshkol that:
1) I am concerned that talks with Israeli officers in Washington and
Tel Aviv reflect misunderstanding by GOI of US intent in proposed November
12 talks, and wish avoid any disappointment arising from false expectations.
2) As evidence US sympathetic interest in Israel's security, I proposed
to Mrs. Meir September 30 exchange views on specific information Israel
might have that has given rise to Israeli concern about UAR progress
in development missiles and other sophisticated weapons affecting UAR-Israel
military balance. We willing study any information Israel may wish to
submit on this subject or for proposals for regional disarmament and
arms limitation. I did not, however, and do not contemplate entertaining
proposals involving joint planning or regular military consultations.
3) November 12 talks not forum designed consider Israeli requests for
additional weaponry.
Department also informing Israel Embassy my views outlined above.
Rusk
Sources: Foreign
Relations of the United States, 1961-1963: Near East, 1962-1963,
V. XVIII. DC: GPO,
2000. |