501.BB Palestine/7–2049: Telegram
Mr. Stuart W. Rockwell to the Secretary of State
Palun 246. In conversation this afternoon Abdul Monem stoutly denied US charge regarding negative Egyptian attitude, stated Egypt anxious for just peace based on return large number refugees and partition plus compensation. Egypt in no hurry sign unjust peace which would not be lasting and rather than do this preferred await developments. Would take long time for bitterness Near East to subside enough to permit Arab states sign peace and meantime, who knew what might happen in Israel? Israel is carrying crushing economic burden and possibility civil war should not be disregarded.
[Page 1239]Said Egypt had decided could not discuss Gaza proposal. Showed complete indifference fate Gaza refugees who were international and Jewish responsibility and maintained if international aid stopped Egypt had means support.
Negev must remain Arab and Egypt needed Gaza-Beersheba-Dead Sea line for defense.
Only sign progress Egyptian position here was information he had been authorized discuss matters other than refugees. Said he willing consider any proposal put forward by PCC but refused commit self in replies to questions regarding possibility Egyptian-Israel condominium Southern Negev or guarantee Israeli access Akaba if Southern Negev in Arab hands.
Hirsch has made it very clear that Israeli Government does not desire that Palestine question be discussed in GA this fall. Put forth “personal” suggestion that if PCC saw any hope for progress at time opening GA, it should recommend Palestine be excluded or placed at very end of GA agenda.
Have asked Arab delegates what their position will be if Shiloah brings substantial concessions from Tel Aviv. All have said would discuss concessions with great interest but obvious that during recess they have reached no common position regarding territorial issue.