144. Letter From Secretary of State Rogers to the British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Douglas-Home), Washington, September 13, 1971
THE SECRETARY OF STATE
WASHINGTON
September 13, 1971
Dear Alec:
Since we discussed the Gulf Islands dispute in London last April, I have followed this difficult problem with continuing interest. I now understand that Sir William Luce has negotiated an agreement in principle with the Iranians on an arrangement which would satisfy basic Iranian demands. I consider this a significant and encouraging development and wish to express my great admiration for the skill displayed on your side in bringing about this agreement.
We have received a message from the Shah indicating that the terms to which he has agreed are as far as he can go in being accommodating on this question. He has told us that if the Arab shaykhs refuse to accept the terms to which the United Kingdom and Iran have agreed, Anglo-Iranian relations will be seriously jeopardized, Iran will denounce the proposed Federation of Arab Amirates, and Iran will reserve its rights to take such action as it deems necessary to protect its national interest. I am informed that the Shah has conveyed a similar message to you.
I fully understand the difficulty of bringing the Arab shaykhs to accept this arrangement. I am confident, however, that the terms which you have negotiated on their behalf are as good as the shaykhs can expect.
I know we are fully in accord that an amicable settlement of this nature is essential if there is to be cooperation and stability in the Gulf in the future. In looking at ways we might assist, I see little we could add to your efforts at this time to influence the Gulf shaykhs. We do intend, however, to reply to the Shah that we are confident the United Kingdom will make every effort to bring this promising opportunity for a settlement to a successful conclusion.
With best personal regards,
Sincerely,
William P. Rogers
The Right Honorable
Sir Alec Douglas-Home, K.T., M.P.,
Secretary of State for Foreign
and Commonwealth Affairs,
London.
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