Demiliterizaton of Jerusalem – UNCCP 91st meeting (Lausanne) – Summary Record

UNITED NATIONS CONCILIATION COMMISSION FOR PALESTINE

SUMMARY RECORD OF THE NINETY-FIRST MEETING

Demilitarization of Jerusalem

The CHAIRMAN recalled that at the previous day's meeting (SR/LM/34), the representative of Egypt had requested that the Commission take steps to secure the implementation of that provision of the resolution of 11 December 1948 which called for the demilitarization of Jerusalem. He invited the views of the Commission as to what steps could be taken.

Mr. de BOISANGER pointed out that according to the terms of the resolution, the task was one for the Security Council, not for the Conciliation Commission. If the Commission so desired, it might include in its report a recommendation for demilitarization. For the time being, however, he thought the Commission could do no more than transmit to the Secretary-General, for communication to the Security Council, the desire expressed by the representative of Egypt.

In reply to a question from Mr. PORTER, Mr. de Boisanger pointed out that Jerusalem was at present occupied by troops and that it would be difficult to have those troops removed during the period of the armistice. There was no conflict, as such, between the resolution and the armistice agreements with regard to Jerusalem; but demilitarization could hardly be effected for the duration of the state of armistice, which was merely a broader extension of the state of truce.

The Commission adopted Mr. de Boisanger s proposal, and approved the following text of a cable for despatch to the Secretary-General:

“At Commission meeting August 24, representative Egypt called attention provision in Para 8 of December 11 resolution relating to demilitarization Jerusalem and remarked that this provision not yet carried out. He asked whether Commission might consider taking steps necessary implement this provision. Chairman replied Commission would consider. At meeting 25 August Commission decided to transmit foregoing observation Egyptian representative to 'Secretary-General for communication Chairman Security Council.