501.BB Palestine/1–1549: Telegram
The Consul at Jerusalem (Burdett) to the Secretary of State
42. Following comments made on 12th by British Consul Jerusalem:
Talks between Dayan and Tel not making satisfactory progress. Both sides merely presented demands which realized other could not accept and no attempt made to reconcile differences. UK advised King Abdullah obtain agreement Transjordan Government to talks. Main demands Transjordan included outlet to sea at Gaza, return of Ramie and Lydda, return of refugees and consideration future western Galilee at later date. Jews in general claimed right retain territory now held and specifically partition Jerusalem, mutual compensation [Page 670] for damages, resumption operation potash works at southern end Dead Sea, together with right use potash works at northern end, and rectification lines at Latrun. No mention made by Jews of refugees.
Regarding shooting down RAF planes, asserted careful interrogation personnel involved proved conclusively Jewish attacks occurred over Egyptian territory. Stated Egyptian Defense Minister approached UK Ambassador Cairo with request UK supply arms and munitions without Egypt’s invoking 1936 treaty. On instructions from E. Bevin Ambassador replied UK would not furnish assistance until Egypt invoked treaty and presence Jewish troops in Egypt definitely proved. Reconnaissance flights undertaken in effort obtain definite proof.
Consul emphasized importance to UK of overland communications between Egypt and Jordan and Iraq so that defense treaties with latter two countries could be implemented if necessary.
Considered at least corridor linking Transjordan and Egypt or Transjordan and Gaza vital for British defense needs. Expressed personal opinion UK would use force if necessary obtain route.
Sent Department 42, pouched Amman.