Demilitarization of Jerusalem – Interim report – Cablegram from the Mediator

CABLEGRAM DATED 19 AUGUST 1948 FROM THE UNITED NATIONS MEDIATOR ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY-GENERAL CONCERNING DEMILITARIZATION OF JERUSALEM

For President of Security Council:

I wish to submit to the Security Council before it adjoins the following Interim Report regarding demilitarization of Jerusalem.

Resolution 15 July instructed Mediator continue his efforts bring about demilitarization of Jerusalem.  As soon as I returned to the area from I New York I personally initiated discussion on matter urging parties to agree on demilitarization  Negotiations are proceeding in Jerusalem between my representatives and Arab and Jewish authorities separately.  In a draft proposal submitted to me on 11 August, Arabs fully accept principle of demilitarization though putting conditions.  Jewish authorities although had initially stated that they did not exclude demilitarization, they have not shown in fact readiness to accept principle.  In my opinion this is due more to political reasons relating future status of Jerusalem than to mere military considerations regarding present conflict.  Besides even if both parties were to agree on issue, demilitarization could not be put into effect without strong and adequately armed United Nations force to be provided immediately.  Under these conditions I wish to inform you that I have serious doubts whether demilitarization can be attained in near future.

Count Folke Bernadotte

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