An exchange of letters took place among Israel Prime Minister David Ben Gurion, President Eisenhower and Secretary of State John Foster Dulles right after the Iraqi coup in July, it was confirmed here this week-end.
It is understood that the exchange, and a follow-up through the regular diplomatic channels between the two governments, indicated an increasingly clear understanding in Washington of Israel’s security needs.
The talks, which are continuing, are not necessarily concerned with an American declaration of readiness to assist Israel in the event she becomes a target of aggression. It is understood that Washington feels this aspect of Israel’s security problem was sufficiently covered by the American landings in Lebanon which underscored the United States readiness to make good by deed her promises to aid targets of aggression, including Israel.
The Prime Minister began the interchange with a letter to President Eisenhower, outlining his view of the fluid Middle East situation and listing Israel’s specific security problems.
The President replied, expressing in general terms the American determination to defend all Middle East states against aggression and adding that he was forwarding Mr. Ben Gurion’s letter to Secretary Dulles.
The latter then replied in greater detail, explaining United States motives behind the landings in Lebanon and interpreting the implications of the landings in terms of Israel’s security.
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