146. Telegram From the Embassy in Lebanon to the Department of State ¹1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 783A.00/7–1658. Secret; Priority. Repeated to London, Paris, and USUN. Received at 12:46 p.m. and passed to the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Beirut, July 16, 1958—4 p.m.

423. General Chehab telephoned me at 9 this morning to protest intent of Marine landing force to enter Beirut. He said he could not be answerable for conduct of his force if they moved into the city before he had had an opportunity to speak with his men.

On my own responsibility I requested General Wade temporarily to suspend operations until I had a chance to talk to President. This General Wade did. Because of communications difficulties I was not able to consult Admiral Holloway.

I called on Chamoun at 9:30 accompanied by General Wade. President said he was seeing Chehab immediately and unless General could advance more convincing arguments than he expected, he, Chamoun, would agree to Marines carrying out their operational plan to invest port area, this deployment to be along avenues skirting seacoast and harbor. I concurred particularly since Marines will have an impressive show of force in way of armor and firepower.

I suggested to President (who confirmed his continuing apprehension that Army coup d’etat might at anytime be launched against the palace) that rather than station Marines in palace itself, it would serve purpose for a detachment of armor to be stationed at my residence compound in the old Chancery. This would place aid within five minutes of palace and since I am on a 24-hour open radio hook-up with Chamoun, I could summon assistance in very short order. Chamoun thought this an excellent idea and I have made arrangements with General Wade accordingly.

I told Chamoun that unless I hear from him by 10:30 a.m. I would request General Wade to carry out his orders. As of 10:35 when this is written, movement of Marines into port area will recommence. Some Lebanese tanks have been moved into position on airport road on which they will pass. I have sent Foreign Service Officers speaking French and Arabic to assist General Wade in dissuading tank commanders from opening fire.

Expect envelopment of port to be completed shortly after noon today. Will bring Admirals Holloway and Yeager with General Wade call on Chamoun 1430, Prime Minister 1500, Chehab 1530.

McClintock