Telegram Describing Effects of Israeli Position on Johnson Plan
(September 26, 1962)
This telegram takes note of Israel's withholding from
the Johnson Plan, and the effect that their position has on the ultimate
success of the plan and the degree to which the U.S. is willing to press
for the plan.
529. Depcirtel 384./2/ Current unwillingness of Israel
to acquiesce in Johnson Plan creates uncertainty whether process envisioned
thereunder can actually be gotten under way. Until both Israel and Arabs
willing let process start USG wishes avoid openly placing full weight
behind plan. Arab attitude still unclear.
Posts therefore instructed take no further initiative
press for acceptance plan. In responding to initiative by local officials
posts authorized describe plan as fair, reasonable and beneficial for
refugees as well as for governments concerned. However, USG should not
be portrayed as strongly supporting plan.
At such time as we able determine final Israel and/or
Arab position further instructions will be provided.
All communications on this subject are to be slugged
"Limit Distribution--S/S" until further notice.
Ball
/1/Source: Department of State, Central Files, 325.84/9-2662.
Secret; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Strong, cleared by Cleveland,
and approved by Talbot. Sent to Amman, Beirut, Cairo, Damascus, Jidda,
London, Paris, Ankara, Tel Aviv, and USUN and repeated to Baghdad, Khartoum,
Tripoli, Tunis, Algiers, Rabat, and Jerusalem.
/2/Document 34.
Sources: Foreign
Relations of the United States, 1961-1963: Near East, 1962-1963,
V. XVIII. DC: GPO,
2000. |