This Copy For

NEWS CONFERENCE

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AT THE WHITE HOUSE

WITH JERRY WARREN

AT 12:37 P.M. EDT

OCTOBER 10, 1973

WEDNESDAY

MR. WARREN: It has been a busy morning, so we will
move along.

The President's schedule for today has been posted. He met with Secretary Kissinger this morning prior to the bipartisan leadership meeting. He also met with Ron Ziegler and Al Haig. The bipartisan leaders met for 90 minutes this morning. Senator Mansfield and Senator Scott and Congressman Albert reported to you out here in front of the West Lobby following that meeting. We have a transcript of their remarks in the bins and in the Press Office, if you do not have that.

Following that meeting the President met for an
hour with President Mobutu Sese Seko of Zaire, and I will
give you a fill on that meeting after I go through the
announcements.

You, I think, all witnessed the presentation of
the National Medal of Science awards in the East Room, and
we have backup material for those of you who need it, in
the Press Office.

Tomorrow, at 10:30 a.m., the President will meet
with the Energy Research and Development Advisory Council
to the Energy Policy Office. This is a group set up by
Executive Order on June 29 of this year to advise Governor
Love in the areas of research and development. I think,
as you recall, in the June 29 material, the President called
for a step-up in funds for research and development in the
field of energy. Particularly, he also referred to that
this morning in his remarks to the Medal of Science award
winners and to the group witnessing that event.

We will post the membership of the Advisory Council,
but to refresh your memory, at that time the President called
for an increase of $100 million in research and development
funds for fiscal 1974. That would be over the budgeted
amount of $25 million. And a total of $10 billion over five
years, beginning fiscal year '75.

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We are asking for a $100 million increase in the current fiscal year, which would make it $125 million for the current fiscal year. The President will ask for $10 billion for the five years, beginning fiscal 1975, for research and development on energy.

Tomorrow afternoon at 1:45, the President will open the Conference on Export Expansion. This is a conference which is being called by the Secretary of Commerce. The President has invited chief executive officers of leading export companies to the White House for this conference. They will be called upon to enlist the help of America's top businessmen in increasing sales of U.S. products abroad.

In addition to the President and Secretary Dent, Secretary Shultz, who has just returned from abroad, will address the conference, as will Under Secretary of State Kenneth Rush, Ambassador William D. Eberle and Peter Flanigan, who is Assistant to the President. We will have some backup material on that conference for you in the press room after this briefing.

Q What time will that be?

MR. WARREN: That will be at 1:45.

Q The East Room?

MR. WARREN: Yes, in the East Room.

Q And you will give us a list of those invited today, please?

MR. WARREN: We will do our best to do that, yes.

Q It is open to coverage?

MR. WARREN: I will look into the coverage. I think we will have coverage of the President's remarks, but don't lock me into that. I will check on it.

Q Why don't you "no pool" it, and let everybody cover, because there will be a lot of people there and a lot of different interests?

MR. WARREN: We didn't pool it this morning.

Q I know, but just "no pool" it, please.

MR. WARREN: We will let you know what the coverage will be on that.

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I have several announcements this morning.

The President is accepting with regret and deep gratitude for his service the resignation of Byron D. Woodside as a Director and as Chairman of the Board of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. Mr. Woodside is the first Chairman of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation and was appointed in January of 1971; to succeed Mr. Woodside as a Director and as Chairman, the President will nominate Hugh F. Owens, who is, as you know, a member of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The President is pleased that an individual of Mr. Owens' experience and ability is available to take on the full time position as Chairman of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. Mr. Owens, of course, will leave the SEC when he is confirmed in his position. You have a release on this, I believe, which gives you a brief description of the Corporation and its origins. Compensation for this position is $42,500 which is paid by the Corporation and not by the Federal Government.

The President is also announcing that he will nominate Glenn Anderson of Raleigh, North Carolina, for reappointment as a Director of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation for the term expiring December 31, 1975.

The President today is announcing his intention to nominate Warren Clay Wood of Gering, Nebraska, to be the Federal Cochairman of the Old West Regional Commission. He will succeed Rogert L. McCaughey in this position.

The President also is announcing that he will nominate Walter J. Skinner of Newton, Massachusetts, to be United States District Judge for the District of Massachusetts. He succeeds Anthony Julian, who retired the first of August.

Q What is he now, Jerry?

MR. WARREN: We will get a biography and post it after the briefing.

The President has signed two bills and we will post details of those bills after the briefing. One is a private bill, Senate 464 and the second bill is Senate 2075 which authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to make feasibility investigations of four potential water resource developments. We will post the specifics of these projects which are located in California, Oklahoma, Montana, and Wyoming.

I have also been asked this morning to tell the regulars and others here, too, of course, that the 1973-74 Government Organization Manual is now available. We have a few for the regulars and should you want to mention this in your coverage of the White House, they are available for $4 from the GPO, I am told. But we do have a limited number here in the Press Office, and I know the Organization Manual is a helpful tool for many of you.

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Public Statements

Warren Briefing [10]

10/10/73

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The President's meeting with Mobutu, as I said, lasted for an hour. The President welcomed President Mobutu to the United States and in so doing recalled warmly the State visit, the highly successful State visit that President Mobutu made to the United States in August of 1970. The two Presidents reviewed United States-Zaire relations, President Mobutu's favorable attitude toward U.S. private investment in Zaire, and the substantial growth of U.S. private participation in that country's economy since 1970.

President Mobutu described to President Nixon his plans for continuing economic growth of his country and outlined his cultural authenticity program designed to promote an awareness in Zaire, and internationally of his nation's cultural heritage.

Finally the two Presidents reviewed the Africa and international situation and expressed a mutual desire for close and continued communication on issues of mutual concern.

President Mobutu, as you know, was in the United States and the President welcomed this opportunity to meet with him. The President escorted President Mobutu to the car at the conclusion of the meeting, and there was a pool out there at the time. The President mentioned to President Mobutu that this country was continuing its contacts with other powers and members of the Security Council and parties to the conflict in the Mideast and what this country was seeking was a fair and responsible solution to the problems in the Middle East and one that would lead to a lasting peace, not only in the Middle East, but throughout the world.

This is similar to the remarks of the President in the bipartisan leadership meeting this morning, which, as I said, lasted for 90 minutes. The leaders received a thorough report on the military situation and on the United States diplomatic activity. Senator Mansfield and Senator Scott and Speaker Albert mentioned this to some of you out front after the meeting.

Our contacts are continuing. Secretary Kissinger and others are continuing their contacts in this situation. In these contacts we are urging restraint on the part of all parties to the situation and as the President said, our purpose is to create an atmosphere where a just peace can be achieved. I believe that is the extent of my report on the meeting this morning.

Q Jerry, did the President indicate to the leaders whether any headway at all was being made in the diplomatic efforts?

MR. WARREN: Well, as I said, he and Dr. Kissinger described thoroughly our diplomatic activity, and I would not want to, from here, provide an assessment of that. The activity is continuing, Secretary Kissinger at the State Department, Ambassador Scali at the United Nations.

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Q U.S. officials are saying this morning that the Soviet Union is stepping up its shipments of war supplies to Egypt and Syria. Is the United States resupplying Israel with planes or any other military equipment?

MR. WARREN: We, of course, are continuing our contact, as I said, with all parties to the situation and continue our contact with Israel. I would have no comment on the matter of U.S. resupply of military items to Israel.

Q Jerry, was this matter discussed with the
Congressmen this morning?

MR. WARREN: As I said, the military situation and
our contacts with other countries were discussed, but I am
not prepared to expand on that at this time.

Q Can you say specifically whether the possibility
of providing additional military supplies to Israel was
discussed?

MR. WARREN: Well, all aspects of the military situation
were discussed, Gene. I am just not prepared to elaborate or
go into any detail this morning.

Q Has the United States received a request from
Israel for aid?

MR. WARREN: Well, as I said, we have continuing
contact with Israel, but I just would not comment on that question.

Q Can I follow that up, Jerry. In the summer of
1970, the U.S. persuaded Israel to cease its participation in
what was a war of attrition along the Suez Canel and Secretary
Rogers specifically and publicly assured Israel that her
security would not be jeopardized as a result, after which the
Russians commenced setting up SAM missile sites which, as
we all know, have been rather effective over there.

What is the U.S. doing to live up to that public
pledge by Secretary Rogers?

MR. WARREN: Jerry, I must once again say that we
are, and the Secretary of State and others are in contact with
the parties involved, with the members of the Security Council,
and other powers. I am just not in a position to --

Q Jerry, can I follow up?

MR. WARREN: Just a moment. Bear with me if you
would, please. I am just not in a position to discuss that
matter.

Q Jerry, could you give us some rationale for
this? Senator Church of Idaho who has pointed out that the
equipment is streaming in, that the Arabs attacked, and he
called last night for the prompt supplying with such
replacement of equipment as she may need to defend herself.
Are we to presume that this Democratic Senator is speaking to
the needs of one of our allies and the White House keeps silent?

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MR. WARREN: You are to take my words as I give them to you. I will just not have any further comment on the subject.

Q I think whether you are prepared to comment or not, I think the American people are entitled to an explanation from their Government about what their Government is doing to keep us out of world war?

MR. WARREN: Well, Sarah, I will restate it for you.

Q And that is a question.

MR. WARREN: I understand, and I will restate it for you.

Q I don't care whether you are prepared to cover it or not. I want you to go right straight back to the President and tell him we, as journalists, think the United States people ought to be told what he is doing to keep us out of it.

MR. WARREN: Now may I state it for you?

Q Certainly.

MR. WARREN: Thank you.

Q If you restate it correctly.

MR. WARREN: Sarah, it may not be correct from your standpoint, but hopefully it will be correct from the standpoint of the United States Government and the aims of this Government, which the President has stated and the Secretary of State has stated, and that is that we are following the situation very closely. We are, the Secretary of State, and Ambassador Scali and others, are in close contact with the major powers and the parties to the conflict. The President has stated that our objective is to create an atmosphere through these diplomatic contacts where a peace can be achieved, a lasting peace.

Q Now may I follow with two more things. In the first place, I would like to know, bearing on that same thing, this gentleman over here has raised the question and someone else raised the implication that we should respond to our allies. I suppose they mean by that Israel. I want to know since when did we become an ally in war of Israel? And the next thing I want to know is what exactly we should be told by the White House. What exactly is the delivery status of arms and planes from past agreements to Israel and Saudi Arabia and these other countries? Just exactly what is our status about supplying them with arms and equipment?

MR. WARREN: Sarah, as you know -- and perhaps this is not satisfactory to you -- but as you know, we never discuss military supply programs --

Q Why don't we?

MR. WARREN: -- from the White House. It has been a practice that we have followed. We feel it is the proper practice and we will continue in that.

Gene Risher was next.

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Q Can you tell us what the U.S. assessment of the Soviet attitude in this conflict is, and was this passed on to the congressional leaders this morning?

MR. WARREN: Gene, all I can do is restate for you that a thorough report on our diplomatic activity was given in the meeting this morning. I would not, from this podium, assess those contacts. Ambassador McCloskey briefs from time to time and has addressed that subject, but I would not from here.

Q Let me follow that question, if I may. I think it was Senator Scott who was asked about the Soviet attitude and he said he felt they were being responsible. Is that a fair characterization?

MR. WARREN: As I said, Tom, I would not assess our diplomatic contacts.

Q Have there been any further messages between the President and Brezhnev?

MR. WARREN: Not that I am aware of, no.

Q On that very point, Jerry, apparently the Soviets are now flying supplies and material in to the Arabs. This is certainly a threat to the detente and may not be in agreement with the signed agreements that we and the Soviets have now on informing each other about major crises.

Has the White House taken any position whatever on Soviet activities in the Middle East?

MR. WARREN: Well, I would not have an assessment on that this morning, Bob. That relates to an earlier question. I think I gave the White House position in answer to the earlier question and I have nothing to add to that.

Q Jerry, a couple of questions. Has the U.S. been in contact with both Jordan and Saudi Arabia with respect to our hope that they keep out of the struggle, and secondly, Kuwait yesterday raised, apparently, a call to other Arab countries to convene a meeting to reconsider oil policy, I think they said in light of events. Have we been in communication with any of the Arab countries on the subject of oil deliveries?

MR. WARREN: As I said, the contacts are being made by Secretary Kissinger and by Ambassador Scali at the U.N. I would prefer, really, that their spokesmen address those questions.

Q Has there been any discussion of reports that if there is unlimited supply to the Arabs, and the Arabs are able to break through into Israel, the Israelis may use their atomic bomb?

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MR. WARREN: I would not discuss any military activity from here, which is in keeping with practice and, I think, safety.

Q Jerry, is the Government of the United States and the Government of the Soviet Union approaching this matter in terms of that Treaty on the Prevention of Outbreak of Nuclear War?

MR. WARREN: Once again, Adam, the exchange of messages between the President and Chairman Brezhnev was described to you Monday by Ron. The diplomatic contacts which our governments are maintaining are a source of discussion at the State Department where it properly should be, and I really have nothing to add.

Q Since the weekend, has there been any further communication between the President and Brezhnev? Has the "hot line" been used?

MR. WARREN: No.

Q Jerry, on another matter, can you tell us whether the White House had anything to do with the possible bugging of Dita Beard's hospital room?

MR. WARREN: I have no idea what you are talking about.

Q There is a report in the Post this morning, and that is what I am referring to.

MR. WARREN: I have no knowledge of it whatsoever.

Q Has the President spoken to Mr. Rebozo about the matter of the $100,000 in cash?

MR. WARREN: This question keeps popping up and --

Q I am simply asking has he talked to Rebozo about this.

MR. WARREN: I know, and I really wouldn't -- I don't know whether he has talked to him about it or not and I don't know that it would be necessary for him to talk to him about it. This story is an old story, it is a story that keeps popping up in different areas. There was a very long and complete story in the Washington Post on this matter involving other candidates over the weekend, but I just have nothing to add to what has been said on the whole subject.

Q Jerry, has the President contacted any other world leaders since Monday on the Middle East?

MR. WARREN: I had that question earlier, and I had to answer not to my knowledge.

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This Copy For

NEWS CONFERENCE

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AT THE WHITE HOUSE

WITH RON ZIEGLER

AT 3:10 P.M. EDT

OCTOBER (10, 1973)

WEDNESDAY

MR. ZIEGLER: I have some very brief information to give to you, and then we will release the exchange of letters between the Vice President and the President and the letter which Mr. Agnew submitted to Secretary of State Kissinger this afternoon.

At 2:05 this afternoon, Mr. Agnew submitted his letter of resignation to Secretary of State Kissinger. The letter of resignation was provided to the Secretary in his White House office.

At 2:06 this afternoon a letter to the President was given to General Haig and these letters were then taken to the President and given to him in his Oval Office.

The letters which I just referred to were submitted in accordance with the appropriate statutory procedures. Vice President Agnew, as I mentioned, notified the Secretary of State by letter of his resignation. Under these statutory provisions, the resignation became effective upon notification of the Secretary of State. A copy of the Vice President's resignation, with a forwarding letter, was simultaneously delivered to President Nixon at the time and through the process which I have earlier described.

President Nixon has sent a letter of response to Mr. Agnew, and these letters will be made available to you shortly.

Concurrently, as the news reports have already stated, the proceedings involving Mr. Agnew were commenced at the Federal District Court in Maryland, before Judge Hoffman. These hearings have now been concluded. The Department of Justice will respond to queries on these matters at the Justice Department this afternoon, and as I understand, also tomorrow; but this afternoon following the Attorney General's return from Baltimore.

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Mr. Agnew met with President Nixon privately yesterday evening. The meeting which took place yesterday evening in the Oval Office lasted for about 40 minutes and during the meeting last night Mr. Agnew informed President Nixon of his decision, the decision which you are familiar with.

The President expressed to the Vice President his sense of deep personal loss and he expressed his appreciation for the Vice President's dedicated service to the Nation over the past four and one-half years and his respect for the Vice President's decision to put the national interest above personal considerations in taking this very difficult action.

The Twenty-fifth Amendment to the Constitution, ratified in 1967, provides that whenever there is a vacancy in the office of the Vice President, the President shall nominate a Vice President who shall take office upon confirmation by a majority vote of both Houses of Congress.

President Nixon will promptly begin consultations with appropriate national leaders, both within and outside the Administration, with a view to selecting a nominee for the Vice Presidency. President Nixon intends to move expeditiously in selecting a nominee and he trusts the Congress will then act promptly to consider the nomination.

President Nixon, as he points out in the letter which he has forwarded to Mr. Agnew, and which we will give to you shortly, recognizes that this was a very painful decision for Mr. Agnew and he hopes the American people will accord Mr. Agnew and his family the compassion and understanding they deserve at this difficult time.

That is all the information that I have to provide you at this time. We will release the letters to you in just a short period of time.

I should add that the Justice Department will be providing information this afternoon in relation to the procedures that were followed and any details relating to the discussions that have taken place between the Vice President's counsel and the Justice Department. I am not prepared to get into a discussion of that.

Q Ron, what time last night did he meet with the President?

MR. ZIEGLER: They met for 40 minutes. The meeting began at six o'clock yesterday evening -- these are approximate times -- and concluded 40 minutes later. The meeting took place in the President's Oval Office and the discussion took place in the chairs in front of the fireplace.

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Q Who are the appropriate national leaders the President plans to consult on a successor?

MR. ZIEGLER: I will have to go to a meeting now with the President to discuss his schedule with him and as soon as meetings are set up and arranged for, Pete, we will be providing that information to you, but certainly the President will be consulting in the coming days with Members of the Congress.

Q Of both parties, Ron?

MR. ZIEGLER: The question relates to who are the national leaders that the President will be consulting with.

I have not had an opportunity to discuss this at any length with the President. When meetings are arranged, we will announce those, but it is my understanding that the President will be consulting and talking to Members of the Congress; I would assume with the leadership of both parties.

Q You mean that the meeting you are going to now is where you and the President are going to sit down and make a schedule of his appointments with the leaders?

MR. ZIEGLER: I will be talking to him about his schedule for the next day or so.

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Q Did he talk to the congressional leaders this morning about this?

MR. ZIEGLER: He did not. The leadership meeting this morning was devoted entirely to the Middle East. We have given you a report on that. Obviously this is a subject that was not a subject to be discussed until the Vice President appeared in the Federal Court as he did this afternoon at 2:00.

Q Ron, were the President and Vice President alone in the meeting last night?

MR. ZIEGLER: Yes.

Q Ron, can you tell us if the President had any role in the negotiations with Vice President Agnew concerning this arrangement that has been worked out and if so, can you tell us what role he played?

MR. ZIEGLER: The President played no direct role in the arrangement that was worked out, or the decision which has been announced today. The President and the White House and the Vice President have made the point that this is a decision which was a personal decision which only the Vice President could make. The President, of course, respected that.

The President, as you know, because we announced this matter, has met with the Vice President periodically since August the 6th to discuss certain of these matters. But this was a decision which was reached by the Vice President.

Q You said the President will move expeditiously. Are you talking about a matter of days or weeks or what? What is a rough time frame on this?

MR. ZIEGLER: I am not talking about a matter of weeks, and that is as specific as I can be at this time.

Q It is less than weeks, you mean?

MR. ZIEGLER: Yes, I would say so.

THE PRESS: Thank you, Mr. Secretary.

END

(AT 3:21 P.M. EDT)

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USMISSION NATO
USINT BAGHDAD BY POUCH
AMEMBASSY SANAA BY POUCH

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E.O. 11652: N/A
TAGS: PFOR
SUBJECT: DEPARTMENT PRESS BRIEFING

FOR YOUR INFORMATION AND GUIDANCE FOLLOWING IS PARTIAL
EXCERPT FROM DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN'S PRESS BRIEFING
OCTOBER 10, 1973:

QUOTE: Q. AT THE PENTAGON THIS MORNING, U.S. OFFICIALS SAID THAT THE SOVIETS ARE CONDUCTING RESUPPLY OPERATIONS TO BOTH EGYPT AND SYRIA. A TWO-PART QUESTION ON THAT. FIRST, WHAT IS YOUR REACTION. AND SECOND, DOES THIS FIT WITH THE DEFINITION OF RESPONSIBILITY WHICH THE SECRETARY OF STATE GAVE THE OTHER NIGHT AT THE PACEM IN TERRIS CONFERENCE?

A. WE HAVE HAD SOME INDICATIONS THAT I COULD NOT BE SPECIFIC ABOUT, SINCE THE INDICATIONS ARE NOT SPECIFIC, THAT THE SOVIET UNION MAY BE ATTEMPTING THIS KIND OF EFFORT. IF THIS TURNS OUT TO BE A MASSIVE AIRLIFT, IT WOULD TEND TO PUT A NEW-FACE ON THE SITUATION. BUT I AM NOT IN A POSITION TO CONFIRM THAT ANY OF THIS IS IN FACT TAKING PLACE AT THIS TIME.

Q. THE SECOND PART OF THAT QUESTION -- HOW THIS FITS IN WITH THE DEFINITION OF RESPONSIBILITY.

A. WELL, I DON'T WANT TO, BY A STATEMENT HERE, MAKE A CHARGE OF SOMETHING THAT IS AT LEAST AS OF NOW PRESENTLY UNCONFIRMED -- THIS IS WHY I HAVE USED THE WORD "INDICATIONS". AND THE SENTENCE THAT YOU REFERRED TO IN THE SECRETARY'S SPEECH -- YES, OF COURSE IT STANDS. AND 17 STANDS IN THAT SENSE. BUT I DO WANT TO PUT SOME EMPHASIS, AGAIN, ON THE VERY INTENSIVE DIPLOMATIC CONSULTATIONS AND EFFORTS THAT ARE UNDER WAY BETWEEN WASHINGTON AND THE CAPITALS THAT INCLUDE THE SOVIET UNION, AS INDEED WITH A

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NUMBER OF OTHER GOVERNMENTS, BOTH THOSE INVOLVED IN THE CONFLICT AND OTHERS WITH AN INTEREST IN THE AREA. THAT, OF COURSE, IS COMPLEMENTARY WITH THE CONTACTS AND DISCUSSIONS THAT THE AMERICAN DELEGATION AT THE UNITED NATIONS IS HAVING WITH THE PARTIES REPRESENTED ON THE SECURITY COUNCIL.

Q. UP UNTIL NOW, IN THE EXCHANGES THE UNITED STATES HAS HAD WITH THE SOVIET UNION, WAS THERE ANY AGREEMENT ON ANY SPECIFIC FORM OF RESTRAINT OR ON THE NON-SUPPLY OR NON-EXPANSION OF SUPPLIES TO THE COMBATANTS?

A. I WON'T BE IN A POSITION TO GO INTO THE COMPLETE CONTENT OF THE COMMUNICATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS WE HAVE HAD WITH THE SOVIET UNION. WE HAVE OURSELVES REPEATEDLY AND CONTINUE TO URGE RESTRAINT. WE HOPE THAT ALL OF THE OTHERS WITH INFLUENCE IN THE AREA WOULD DO THE SAME THING. THAT HAS BEEN MADE CLEAR HERE IN BRIEFINGS. IT WAS MADE CLEAR IN THE STATEMENT THAT THE UNITED STATES MADE IN THE SECURITY COUNCIL. ONE CAN CONTRAST WHAT THE UNITED STATES HAS SAID PUBLICLY IN THIS REGARD WITH THAT SAID BY THE SOVIET UNION IN ITS MESSAGES PUBLICLY DIRECTED TOWARDS THE ARAB STATES. BUT LET ME SAY THAT WHAT WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO DO IS TO CRYSTALLIZE A CONSENSUS AMONG THE PARTIES TO THE CONFLICT, AND THE OTHER NATIONS WITH INTEREST IN THE AREA, A CONSENSUS THAT WILL BRING A STOP TO THE FIGHTING, RETURN A NON-VIOLENT ATMOSPHERE TO THE AREA, AND A MEANS TO BEGIN A DIPLOMATIC NEGOTIATING PROCESS, LOOKING TOWARDS A SETTLEMENT OF THE ISSUES. AND WE ARE LESS INTERESTED IN THE PUBLIC STATEMENTS THAT WE ARE CALLED UPON TO MAKE DAY IN AND DAY OUT AND THE PUBLIC STATEMENTS MADE BY OTHER GOVERNMENTS THAN WE ARE IN THE OUTCOME. WE ARE WORKING TOWARDS AN OUTCOME THAT WILL BRING A HALT TO THE FIGHTING IN THE AREA, AND WHEN AND AS THAT IS ACHIEVED, THE RECORD OF U.S. EFFORTS IN THIS REGARD CAN BE DISCUSSED MORE OPENLY. BUT IF IT IS GOING TO HAVE ANY EFFECT, BRING ABOUT THE RESULT WE HOPE, WE ARE GOING TO HAVE TO BE PERMITTED TO CONDUCT A GOOD DEAL OF THIS IN THE PRIVATE CHANNEL.

Q. BEFORE THE WAR BROKE OUT IT WAS, IF I AM NOT MISTAKEN, UNITED STATES POLICY FOR SOME TIME TO KEEP A VIEW ON THE

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LEVEL OF EQUIPMENT, MILITARY EQUIPMENT, IN ISRAEL VIS-A-VIS THE ARAB COUNTRIES, AND WE HAD SAID SEVERAL TIMES PUBLICLY THAT WE DID NOT INTEND TO LET THAT LEVEL FALL TO A DANGEROUS POSITION. IS THAT STILL THE UNITED STATES' POLICY? AND ARE WE CONSIDERING POSSIBLE RESUPPLY?

A. WE ARE IN CLOSE AND CONTINUING CONTACT WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF ISRAEL. BOTH HERE AND IN ISRAEL, AND THAT IS ALL I WANT TO SAY WITH RESPECT TO THE QUESTION YOU RAISE. THAT IS ALL I WANT TO SAY ON THAT SUBJECT AT THIS TIME.

Q. CAN YOU SAY IF THE UNITED STATES IS CONCERNED AT THIS TIME ABOUT THE REPORTS OF WIDENING INVOLVEMENT IN THE WAR --THE ANNOUNCEMENT MADE BY IRAQ ABOUT THE USE OF ITS AIR-FORCE, THE REPORTS THAT JORDAN IS MOBILIZING ITS FORCES, ITS RESERVES AND OTHER REPORTS INDICATING WIDENING ACTIVITY BY THE ARAB NATIONS.

A. WELL, I CAN'T AT THE ONE TIME SAY THAT WE ARE WORKING TO FIND A MEANS TO BRING THE FIGHTING TO AN END AND PROFESS NO CONCERN ABOUT ANY INVOLVEMENT THAT EXPANDS THE NATURE OF THE WAR.

Q. YOU ARE NOT ANY BETTER ABLE TO ANTICIPATE WHEN A DECISIVE STAGE MIGHT BE REACHED?

A. NO, AND INDEED, AS THE GOVERNMENT OF ISRAEL SAID OFFICIALLY YESTERDAY, THAT IT EXPECTED THAT THE WAR WOULD -- I AM NOT SURE EXACTLY THE WORDS -- BE LONG OR PROTRACTED. AT LEAST THAT WAS THE SENSE OF WHAT WAS SAID PUBLICLY IN ISRAEL YESTERDAY.

Q. CAN YOU SAY WHETHER THE U.S. DECISION ON RESUPPLY TO ISRAEL WILL BE DEPENDENT UPON THE ASSESSMENT OF WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THAT SOVIET AIRLIFT TO EGYPT AND SYRIA?

A. NO COMMENT.

Q. DOES THE UNITED STATES HAVE ANY INDEPENDENT EVIDENCE TO SUGGEST THAT EITHER TROOPS OR EQUIPMENT ARE BEING TRANS-PORTED TO EGYPT OR SYRIA FROM OTHER ARAB STATES?

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A. FOR BACKGROUND, THERE ARE SOME INDICATIONS IN THAT REGARD, YES.

Q. THERE ARE WIRE SERVICE REPORTS THAT JORDAN HAS MOBILIZED. ASIDE FROM THE ALERT, WHICH WAS SOUNDED THE OTHER DAY, THEY HAVE MOBILIZED THEIR ARMED FORCES. IS THE UNITED STATES CONTEMPLATING OR DOING ANYTHING TO RESTRAIN JORDAN FROM ENTERING THE CONFLICT.

A. NO COMMENT.

Q. THE WHITE HOUSE HIS MORNING USED THE WORD "MEDIATION" -- THE UNITED STATES IS TAKING A ROLE OF MEDIATION. IN THAT SENSE, ARE WE INDEPENDENTLY OF THE UNITED NATIONS TRYING TO REACH AN AGREED SOLUTION BETWEEN THE PARTIES INVOLVED?

A. I WOULD HAVE TO SAY THAT THE CONVERSATIONS ARE RUNNING PARALLEL TO THE EFFORT IN THE UN. WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE RESOLVE -- THE RESOLUTION BROUGHT WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF THE UN. BUT IT IS OUR VIEW THAT THIS WILL REQUIRE CONSULTATIONS OUTSIDE, AND BILATERALLY, OF THE UN, WHILE THE SECURITY COUNCIL IS STILL SEIZED. NOW, IT IS PRETTY CLEAR -- LET ME GO ON BACKGROUND HERE -- THAT THE SECURITY COUNCIL, BECAUSE, AS I HAVE NOTED, IT IS NOT SCHEDULING A MEETING THIS AFTERNOON, IS EXPERIENCING SOME DIFFICULTY IN ARRIVING AT A CONSENSUS. I MIGHT SAY THAT WHILE WE HAVE BOTH HERE AND IN NEW YORK OUTLINED AT LEAST OUR GENERAL PREFERENCE FOR WHAT WE THINK THE SECURITY COUNCIL OUGHT TO CONCLUDE WITH, THAT WE ARE OPEN TO OTHER IDEAS. BUT THERE REALLY HAS NOT BEEN A COALESCE NCE OR A CONSENSUS REACHED. INDEED, AT THE MOMENT THERE ARE NO DRAFT RESOLUTIONS THAT WE ARE AWARE OF AMONG OR FROM ANY OF THE PARTIES, OF MEMBERS OF THE SECURITY COUNCIL.

Q. ON THAT POINT, CAN YOU TELL US OF THE VOLUME OF CONSULTATION BETWEEN THE SECRETARY AND AMBASSADOR DOBRYNIN?

A. WELL, BEGINNING SATURDAY LAST, AT LEAST ONCE AND SOMETIMES MORE OFTEN EACH DAY.

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TELEGRAM

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Q. ON THE TELEPHONE?

A. PRINCIPALLY, YES.

Q. WHEN YOU TALKED ABOUT AN EFFORT TO CRYSTALLIZE A CONSENSUS, YOU TICKED OFF A COUPLE OF POINTS, ONE OF WHICH WAS, OF COURSE, TO STOP THE FIGHTING. COULD YOU SAY ALONG WHAT LINE?

A. WELL, LET ME TRY IT ON BACKGROUND. IT WOULD HAVE TO BE SO THAT IT WOULD NOT RUN THE RISK OF VETO, I SUPPOSE, ON THE BASIS THAT THE PARTIES TO THE CONFLICT WOULD AGREE TO THE TIMING AND THE PLACE OF THE CEASE-FIRE. AND THAT IN TURN RAISES THE QUESTION AS TO WHETHER YOU HAVE A RESOLUTION THAT IS A SIMPLE CEASE-FIRE RESOLUTION OR A RESOLUTION THAT GOES BEYOND THAT AND TRIES TO ESTABLISH A FRAMEWORK FOR NEGOTIATION. AND THAT IS THE DILEMMA AT THE MOMENT.

Q. IF YOU WANT TO FORM A FRAMEWORK FOR NEGOTIATIONS, AREN'T YOU IMPLICITLY AT LEAST AFFECTING THE CONTENT OF 242?

A. WELL, WE HAVE -- I HAVE SAID HERE THAT WE WOULD NOT ENVISION A SECURITY COUNCIL ACTION THAT WOULD IN ANY WAY IMPAIR 242.

Q. IF YOU ARE GOING TO TALK ABOUT ESTABLISHING SOME FRAMEWORK FOR NEGOTIATIONS TOWARDS A PEACE SETTLEMENT, AREN'T YOU -- IN EFFECT WOULDN'T SUCH AN ACTION SUPERSEDE 242?

A. OH, NO, I DON'T THINK SO. I THINK WHAT I AM REALLY SAYING IS TO ESTABLISH A WILL TOWARDS NEGOTIATIONS IN WHICH 242 COULD STILL BE THE VEHICLE.

Q. IN YOUR REFERENCE TO A DILEMMA, CAN YOU DEVELOP WHAT SLIGHTLY, GIVE ME SOME IDEA OF THE PRIORITY YOU PUT ON A CEASE-FIRE JUST AS A CEASE-FIRE -- SOMETHING THAT IS LACKING, THE ELEMENTS OF A BROADER SOLUTION -- JUST A HALT TO THE FIGHTING?

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A. WELL, ON BACKGROUND, THE OBVIOUS ISSUE WOULD BE IF THE FIGHTING STOPPED, WITH ONE SIDE HAVING AN ADVANTAGE IN TERRITORY OVER THE PRE-LAST-SATURDAY PERIOD, IS THAT THEN GOING TO MAKE A NEGOTIATING PROCESS MORE DIFFICULT.

Q. WOULD IT RESTRAIN OUR INTEREST IN A CEASE-FIRE IF IT DID? THAT IS REALLY MY QUESTION.

A. I JUST DON'T HAVE A JUDGMENT ON THAT RIGHT NOW.

Q. SO CEASE-FIRE ITSELF WOULD CERTAINLY NOT BE OUR PRIME OBJECTIVE.

A. I HAVE TOLD YOU WHAT OUR PREFERRED COURSE IS. AND I DON'T WANT TO PREJUDICE BY ANYTHING I SAY NOW, IN LIGHT OF THE ACTIVITY THAT IS GOING ON, WHAT WE MAY AGREE TO OTHERWISE.

Q. WAS THE SECRETARY AWARE OF THE REPORTS OF SOVIET RESUPPLY, AIRLIFT, AT THE TIME THAT HE SPOKE ON MONDAY NIGHT?

A. NO.

Q. YOU SAID EARLIER THAT IF THIS TURNS OUT TO BE A MASSIVE AIRLIFT, IT WOULD TEND TO PUT A NEW FACE ON THE SITUATION. IN THE USE OF THE PHRASE "THE SITUATION" ARE YOU REFERRING

SPECIFICALLY TO THE POWER BALANCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST OR TO SOVIET-U.S. DETENTE, OR TO BOTH?

A. I AM TALKING IN THE FIRST INSTANCE ABOUT THE MOST IMMEDIATE PROBLEM, WHICH IS THE FIGHTING AND THE WAR IN THE MIDDLE EAST. BUT I HAVE CALLED ATTENTION TO THAT LINE IN THE SECRETARY'S SPEECH WHICH GOES TO A BROADER CONCEPT. END QUOTE. KISSINGER

NOTE BY OC/T: POUCHED BAGHDAD, SANAA.

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NEWS CONFERENCE

#1835

AT THE WHITE HOUSE

WITH JERRY WARREN

AT 12:17 P.M. EDT

OCTOBER 11, 1973

THURSDAY

MR. WARREN: The President was in his Oval Office this morning about 8:00 meeting with Dr. Kissinger, Al Haig, Rose Mary Woods, and Ron Ziegler, prior to his bidding farewell to President Felix Houphouët-Boigny of the Ivory Coast. That happened at about 10:30 this morning. There was coverage of that. The President and President Houphouët-Boigny had a chance to talk briefly in the Diplomatic Reception Room before the President of the Ivory Coast departed for the West Coast.

Q Not in the Map Room?

MR. WARREN: I don't think so. I think it was in the Diplomatic Reception Room.

Q Isn't he going to California first?

MR. WARREN: Yes, that is on the West Coast, right. (Laughter) I am sorry, Gene, I couldn't resist that.

Q Obviously. (Laughter)

MR. WARREN: He is going to Los Angeles, Gene, where he will spend a few days, and then to San Francisco, and he will return to New York, and departs New York for the Ivory Coast on the 18th of this month.

Yesterday we announced that the President would open the Export Expansion Conference which will be held in the East Room this afternoon. That has been changed. The President will now close that conference, and that will occur at 4:25 p.m.

Prior to that, the exporters and businessmen who have been invited to this conference will hear remarks from Secretary Shultz, Secretary Dent, Peter Flanigan of the Council on International Economic Policy; Secretary Rush of the State Department, Ambassador Eberle and others.

As you know, the President has invited chief executive officers of the Nation's 250 leading export companies to this White House conference to convey the interest of the Administration in improving our export performance and to enlist the aid of private industry in meeting this goal. It will be a rather full afternoon for the gentlemen and ladies who attend, and the President will greet them as the conference ends. That will be at approximately 4:25 and we will have coverage of the President's remarks at that time.

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MR. WARREN: Senator Griffin did outline, as he said, three criteria. But I would not speak to that from the President's standpoint while this process is going on.

Q. My point is, Jerry, the Senators and Congressmen can come from meetings with the President and speak to that point, why can't the President's spokesman?

MR. WARREN: Because the President is in the midst of this process. He is going to be speaking to a lot of people. I would not quarrel with what Senator Griffin said, but I would not limit the President.

Q. The names that are coming down from Congress are coming in a fairly well defined procedure, if we understand it correctly. Three names from Senators submitted in an envelope and so on. Is that the Senate's idea or the President's idea, and if it is the President's idea, will those procedures be followed in other consultations?

MR. WARREN: The President asked the leaders for their views on possible successors and possible nominees and they have chosen to do it this way.

Q. Jerry, on the Middle East, two questions: Has the President been in touch with Brezhnev again, and can you confirm that the United States is in fact now sending emergency military equipment to Israel?

MR. WARREN: Bob, in the meetings the President had this morning prior to the farewell call of President Houphouët-Boigny, he devoted a great deal of time to the Middle East situation in discussions with Secretary Kissinger and going over reports and cables. He is following the reports very closely. The Secretary of State continues to be in direct contact with the major powers and with the principal parties to the conflict. The United States is continuing to pursue the diplomatic efforts that have been outlined to you previously to bring about an end to the fighting.

Now, I cannot, in the midst of this diplomatic effort on the part of the United States Government, be specific as to the questions that you have asked and Ambassador McCloskey yesterday expressed the same reluctance and I think you will understand that while we are pursuing these diplomatic efforts, it would not be proper for me to comment on those.

Q. Are we practicing restraint on our resupply?

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MR. WARREN: I am just not in a position to and I am not commenting on the matter of resupply.

Q Despite that, Jerry, I have a follow-up question. In view of the fact that it has been several days now and no consensus seems to have developed as to what kind of a resolution can be introduced and the United States has not introduced any resolution and in view of the fact that it appears, even by the Israelis' own estimate, that this is going to be a fairly long row to hoe, is consideration being given to possibly asking the Israelis to freeze things to where they are right now and achieve a cease-fire that way?

MR. WARREN: Bob, I am in no position to outline for you our diplomatic efforts in this area.

Q Can you define what you mean by direct contact? Does that mean Washington and Moscow, Dr. Kissinger to someone in the Kremlin rather than going through the Ambassadors?

MR. WARREN: No, that would mean direct contact with representatives here in the United States.

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Q May I follow that up? After Vietnam was pretty well removed from Dr. Kissinger and the President's plate, the Middle East was elevated, at least publicly, in their public utterances, to position number one in terms of the seriousness of the crisis there. But in terms of action internationally, there was great stress made on new Atlantic charters, years of Europe, trips to Peking, possible trip by Chou En-lai here, but in fact nothing moved ahead relative to the U.S. efforts in the Middle East.

Do you now see the President mandating Dr. Kissinger to change his order of priorities? Will Dr. Kissinger's trip to Peking be put off and what general impact will this have on the President's approach to foreign policy?

MR. WARREN: First let me tell you that Dr. Kissinger's few days in New York at the United Nations were very busy days. I cannot give you a precise schedule, although I am sure Ambassador McCloskey could, but he met with a very large number of people from all parts of the world, particularly the Middle East.

Now, as to the President's mandate to the Secretary in the current situation, I think that is clearly spelled out. The President has instructed the Secretary of State to take all possible diplomatic steps to bring about a peaceful resolution of this fighting.

I have no information on a change in Dr. Kissinger's schedule. If there is to be a change -- and I am not predicting one, nor hinting that there will be one -- it would be announced at the State Department. However, I stress that I am not predicting any change in Dr. Kissinger's schedule.

Q Jerry, is it the President's view that the Soviet Union is cooperating in an effort to end the fighting in the Middle East?

MR. WARREN: I would defer to Ambassador McCloskey and his remarks of yesterday. I have nothing new to give you on any assessment of that situation.

Q Can you tell us if Speaker Albert has been over here and if he is being briefed on the Middle East situation and any other briefings?

MR. WARREN: You must recall that there was a briefing on the Middle East situation yesterday morning of the bipartisan leadership.

Q I am talking about a little more detail than that.

MR. WARREN: I must go back to the answer I gave earlier on the briefings since the events of yesterday afternoon, as it may relate to Speaker Albert. I am just not briefed on that and I am unable to respond.

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MR. WARREN: My response was that we have handled that question in briefings.

Q Could you handle it again?

MR. WARREN: I would prefer not to, under the circumstances.

Q Why not? I don't understand your answer, Jerry. I mean, Cliff asked you, upon reflection now -- giving you a chance to reassess your previous answer -- was resignation discussed by the President and the Vice President prior to this week.

MR. WARREN: I have answered that in a briefing before.

Q Jerry, you recall in that briefing there was a lot of misunderstanding about what you said.

MR. WARREN: Well, not a lot. (Laughter)

Q Could you say it for us again?

MR. WARREN: I would prefer not to, under the circumstances. I think the matter has been covered.

Q But do you stand by what you said, Jerry?

MR. WARREN: Yes.

Q What was it that you said, Jerry? (Laughter)

Q Jerry, as you remarked earlier, I am fairly new here, and I would just like to ask, have you ever in previous press conferences made the statement that previous statements are inoperative?

MR. WARREN: No, I have not.

Q Jerry, has there been any contact between the President and Vice President since 2:05 yesterday?

MR. WARREN: Not that I am aware of, Russ, and as I said, the President was meeting on the Middle East this morning, so I am just not aware of any contact since then. Now, if that changes, I will alert you.

Q I would like to ask one more question on the Middle East, if I may. The wire services are more definite now and more exact in defining what kind of equipment, heavy transport planes, and that kind of thing, is being ferried over to Egypt and Syria. It is a better idea than we had yesterday.

In the light of all of this, and taking into account McCloskey's statement yesterday, which was a warning, does the President plan a statement soon on this?

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OCTOBER 15, 1973

OFFICE OF THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY

THE WHITE HOUSE

REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT
TO
RECIPIENTS OF THE MEDAL OF HONOR

THE EAST ROOM

AT 11:07 A.M. EDT

Ladies and gentlemen:

As all of you know, this is a Medal of Honor presentation. As I was looking over the record of the last four years, I found that 143 Medals of Honor have been presented during those four years. There will be nine presented today and the difference is that this is the first time that a Medal of Honor presentation will be made in peacetime, when the United States is at peace not only in Vietnam, but is at peace with every nation throughout the world.

Now, when we speak of the Medal of Honor, I would say first that those who receive that medal in this room honor this great house and this historic room. When we speak of the Medal of Honor in relationship to the war, the long and difficult war in which so many Americans participated, we realize how these men who receive this medal today and their colleagues, how what they did has made it possible for the United States to end this war and finally to have peace with honor.

As one of our prisoners of war said when he returned from Vietnam, you, you and your colleagues in the Armed Forces of the United States made it possible for our prisoners of war to return to the United States on their feet rather than on their knees.

And so you receive a Medal of Honor today because what you have done is to help the United States maintain its honor.

Now I suppose that talking about honor, as far as a great Nation is concerned, would sound somewhat jingoistic, but I would remind everybody in this audience, particularly at a time when there is another war in the Mideast, that a strong United States, a United States that is respected, is essential if we are to have a chance to have a lasting peace in the world. Because with all of our strength and with all of the sacrifices that Americans have made in four wars in this century, the United States policy is not one of aggression, it is not one to dominate any other country, it is one that seeks peace for ourselves and for other nations, and, of course, seeks, in addition to that, a world in which all nations have the right to be independent of foreign domination.

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One word finally with regard to the current war which is going on in the Mideast. If I were to describe our policy, I would say that it is like the policy that we followed in 1958 when Lebanon was involved, it is like the policy we followed in 1970 when Jordan was involved. The policy of the United States in the Mideast, very simply stated, is this: We stand for the right of every nation in the Mideast to maintain its independence and security. We want this fighting to end, we want the fighting to end on a basis where we can build a lasting peace.

But the policy of the United States is that of peacemaker in the area and I would conclude by saying that the men honored today and the thousands of other Americans who also should be honored, who served their country in Vietnam, make it possible for the United States to play the honored role of peacemaker in the world.

And now we will go forward with the citations.

(The presentations were made.)

Ladies and gentlemen, that completes the ceremony and we want all of you to enjoy this White House. It belongs to you and today it is your home. You can spend your time on this first floor in the historic Red Room, and the Green Room, and the Blue Room. In the dining room there are refreshments which will be there for you and your friends to enjoy.

We congratulate you all again and we thank you from our hearts for your service to the Nation.

END

(AT 11:23 A.M. EDT)

This Copy For

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NEWS CONFERENCE

AT THE WHITE HOUSE

WITH JERRY WARREN

AT 12:20 P.M. EDT

OCTOBER 15, 1973

MONDAY

MR. WARREN: We posted today's schedule, but I have a few additions to give you at this time.

The President met with Secretary Kissinger this morning at about 8:30. That meeting lasted for 30 minutes. The President then met with Ron Ziegler and following that, Al Haig.

At 10:30, the President met with Senator Robert P. Griffin of Michigan and Congressman Leslie C. Arends of Illinois. And at this time, the meeting started about five or ten minutes ago, the President is meeting with Senator Hugh Scott. Senator Scott would have been in the earlier meeting, but he was in Philadelphia this morning.

The purpose of the meeting with the leaders of the Senate and the House is to discuss the Middle East situation and to bring the leaders up to date on that situation.

Most of you attended, I believe, the Medals of Honor ceremony in the East Room this morning. We have information on all the recipients for those who did not attend that ceremony. We also have the transcript of the President's remarks.

At 11:30, the President met with Sangoule Lamizana, the President of Upper Volta. I will have a little bit to say about that after I go through the announcements.

Following the meeting with Senator Scott, the President will meet with Henry Kearns, the President and Chairman of the Board of the Export-Import Bank of the United States. The President today is accepting with deep regret Mr. Kearns' resignation as President of the Export-Import Bank and will take this opportunity to personally express to Mr. Kearns the President's gratitude for Mr. Kearns' service.

Mr. Kearns has been President and Chairman of the Export-Import Bank of the United States since March of 1969. The President is pleased that Mr. Kearns will be remaining on for a period of time to assist in the transition. I do not have a successor to announce to you today. Mr. Kearns also today will be presenting the Export-Import Bank's Annual Report for fiscal 1973. The bank has also transmitted that report to the Congress and it has been released. For those of you who are interested, we do have copies in the Press Office.

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Public Statements
Warren
10/15/75

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President Lamizana's presence at the United Nations provided the opportunity to discuss with President Nixon the terrible consequences of the drought and the region's recovery needs. The United States has been the largest single donor in the international relief effort which has been mounted to aid that stricken region. The United States has contributed nearly $47 million of a total international effort of $154 million. Our assistance has been primarily in food stuffs, but has included medicines, animal feed and transportation. U.S. Air Force C-130's have provided airlifts of food stuff in Chad and Mali and will soon begin operations in Mauritania.

The President's Special Coordinator for Drought Relief, Maurice Williams, has kept the President informed on a current basis of the area's needs and of our aid effort in cooperation with others.

The Department of State today will be discussing Mr. Williams' latest report on the needs of the area.

President Lamizana, speaking on behalf of the six African countries, expressed the gratitude of his fellow Chiefs of State for United States assistance to date. President Nixon in the meeting noted the deeply felt response of the American people to the plight of the peoples affected and promised that the United States Government would continue to assist in conjunction with other donors in relief and rehabilitation efforts in that area.

President Lamizana was accompanied to Washington by Cabinet Ministers from all of the six affected states. These officials met in the Cabinet Room with Mr. Williams and with Assistant Secretary of State David Newsom. This meeting was held concurrently with the meeting of the two Presidents. We will have a list of the Cabinet Ministers posted after this briefing.

President Lamizana is the guest of President Nixon at Blair House and will be leaving Washington on October 16 to return home via Paris.

That is the report I have on that meeting to date.

Those are all the announcements we have. I will attempt to take some of your questions.

Q Jerry, in the East Room the President made specific reference to U.S. policy in the Middle East and defined it in terms of the landing of 3,500 Marines in Lebanon in 1958 and in terms of the U.S. Army alert and Navy alert in 1970 during the Jordanian trouble when Syria invaded. Can you further elucidate our interests in possibly military intervening if the balance is sufficiently toppled in the Middle East?

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MR. WARREN: I think the President's remarks in the East Room, taken in the broader context, need no elaboration from me. He spoke of the United States role as that of a peacemaker. He says the United States policy is not one of oppression, it is not one to dominate any other country, it is one that seeks peace for ourselves and for other nations. He expressed again the right of all nations to be independent and said that the United States policy is that of peacemaker.

Now I would not, as I said, expand on the remarks of the President. The President has been keeping up to date on the situation in the Mideast. He met with Secretary Kissinger this morning to receive a briefing on the current military and diplomatic situation. The Secretary of State has been continuing his contacts with parties to the conflict and with representatives of the major powers, so that is the status of the consultations at the White House and I just have nothing to add.

Q Jerry, the meetings today with Republican leaders on both sides, does the President have in mind some resolution that he hopes to present to Congress and why weren't the Democratic leaders invited for a similar briefing? I mean what was the real purpose?

MR. WARREN: That was the real purpose, the purpose that I stated to you earlier. It was to bring the leaders up to date on the current situation and there was no other purpose.

Q Why not the Democratic leaders, Jerry?

Q I don't think you answered the second half of the question. Why weren't the Democratic leaders present?

MR. WARREN: This was not a formal leadership meeting. The President meets with Republican leaders and then he meets with bipartisan leaders. This was not a bipartisan leadership meeting, it was a meeting with the top leaders of the Republican party.

Q Jerry, is it his plan to keep briefing the Democratic leaders on this matter?

MR. WARREN: I am sure from time to time there will be bipartisan leadership meetings.

Q Does the President expect to ask Congress for any sort of formal support for his policies in the Middle East?

MR. WARREN: I have nothing that would indicate that, Gene.

Q Jerry, to get back to Jerry Landay's question, in both of the references that the President made to earlier incidents in the Middle East and the U.S. policy toward them, in one case the United States intervened and in the other case we have been told that we came very close to intervening. Did the President intend this as a threat to intervene if the crisis continues in the Middle East or if any of the nations start to fall?

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MR. WARREN: Gene, I would not attempt to interpret the President's remarks. We have copies of them available for everyone and I will just let them stand.

Q Jerry, there must have been a reason why the President pointedly referred to and linked today's policy with a policy which in the past has led to intervention. There must have been a reason for that.

MR. WARREN: The President spoke of the policy of the United States as that of a peacemaker. Now I am not prepared to take it any further from this podium this morning.

Q Jerry, what do you have new to tell us about resupplying Israel with arms, the reports that came out Saturday?

MR. WARREN: I have nothing to tell you about those reports. I would just tell you, repeat again what I said earlier about the President's contacts and consultations this morning.

Q Jerry, any comment on Senator Jackson's speech?

MR. WARREN: No, no comment.

Q Are you denying reports that we have begun to --

MR. WARREN: I am not commenting or responding to those reports.

Q In connection with your last remarks a moment ago about does the United States intend to be peacemaker in the world, the question was asked here Friday, the last question of the briefing, as to whether the United States was insisting upon a cease-fire in place and the question was brushed off with no comment or some such thing.

Over the weekend reliable reports out of the State Department indicated that was indeed the United States role. Now, in view of what you just said about the United States acting as peacemaker in the area or willing to do so, would you comment about U.S. efforts and in view of these reports especially, would you comment about United States efforts to secure a cease-fire of the parties to the conflict in place?

MR. WARREN: I have no report to give you on the consultations which are under way by the Secretary and by Ambassador Scali at this time and I must tell you that when I was discussing the United States role, I was reading from the President's remarks this morning.

Q Jerry, the President, to go back to this reference to Lebanon and Jordan, you said that that should be taken in the broader context. By that, are you trying to steer us off specifically linking U.S. policy to Lebanon especially where U.S. troops were landed?

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MR. WARREN: I think the President's remarks should be read in full context.

Q What do you mean by that? We are trying to find out if the President is contemplating intervention in the Middle East. We fought for six years in Vietnam to preserve the peace. Are we going to war over there to preserve the peace?

MR. WARREN: And I have given you a rundown on the President's consultations this morning and I have nothing to add.

Q Jerry, does the President plan to appeal the Court of Appeals ruling on the tapes?

MR. WARREN: The decision of the Court of Appeals is under study and I have nothing to offer you today on that study.

Q You don't mean to imply there he is not going to appeal it, do you?

MR. WARREN: I don't mean to imply anything other than the decision is under study.

Q When will a decision be made?

MR. WARREN: I can't predict that for you, Helen.

Q Is the President taking part in this study?

MR. WARREN: The President is certainly aware of the study and is being kept abreast of it certainly.

Q You have said in an earlier stage that he had consulted with Professor Wright and Buzhardt, the White House counsel, there are other stages, is he consulting with them at this stage?

MR. WARREN: Yes, he is.

Q Generally in the broader context of the President's remarks, which you advised us to use, is the President saying that as a peacemaker, and you stressed that phrase, the United States could or might intervene in the Middle East? I am taking the President's remarks in its broadest context.

MR. WARREN: Ralph, I really have no interpretation for you of those remarks. In this current situation the President is keeping in close contact with Secretary Kissinger and I just have nothing to offer from here today.

Q Jerry, I think you are being asked because --

Q Jerry, this is a particularly important matter, could we get somebody out here that could give us some sort of guidance on this matter?

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MR. WARREN: Gene, I am sorry. No, I retract that. Gene, I have told you the President's contacts this morning and I really have nothing to offer.

Q Jerry, I think we are all pressing you very hard because the President today has apparently introduced a new element into the situation.

MR. WARREN: Well, I am not going to expand on it nor interpret the President's remarks.

Q Do you think there is a decisive change in the fighting on the ground in our view?

MR. WARREN: I have not nor will I assess the military situation from here, Bob.

Q Jerry, does the President have any plans for attending the Al Smith dinner in New York on Thursday?

MR. WARREN: There is nothing set, nothing on the schedule at this time.

Q Is it being talked about?

MR. WARREN: There is just nothing on the schedule at this moment.

Q After the President made this very cryptic and yet explosive statement about Lebanon and also in 1970, did he talk to you in any way, I mean did you have a chance to talk to him, because he must have known that we were going to ask a lot of questions about this, or did he just make the statement and then kind of throw you to all these questions?

MR. WARREN: Well, there are discussions which go on in the White House which I don't report on here. I just have nothing to offer you from the White House this morning.

Q Then let's skip the Middle East, I have one other question. The Christian Century, one of the most prestigious Protestant journals, has reported that there have been two meetings of the East Whittier Friends Church, a discussion of the possibility of disowning the President because it points out that he has not been and attended there for six or seven years and he has never attended here. One member of the church was quoted as saying that when he was in this area over a Sunday and went to church at all it was usually to one of the swankier churches on Wilshire Boulevard.

The question is, has the President seen this statement and does he have any comment on it?

MR. WARREN: I am sure he has not seen it. I had not heard of it.

Q I will get you a copy of it.

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MR. WARREN: I think the people who cover the White House regularly know the churches that the President has attended in the San --

Q He has never attended the Friends Church though, as I understand it.

MR. WARREN: I think the people who cover regularly know the churches the President has attended in the San Clemente area.

Q Jerry, besides Chairman Brezhnev -- or two questions. First, has the President exchanged any sort of message with Chairman Brezhnev and second, what other chiefs of State has he exchanged messages with?

MR. WARREN: I have told you the contacts. The Secretary is maintaining his contacts with parties to the conflict and with other major powers. I have nothing new to add today on contacts with leaders.

Marty has been waiting fairly patiently.

Q I have two questions. One similar to what Gaylord just asked. Has the President let any of the parties in the Mideast or the Soviet Union know in advance of this policy that he enunciated this morning? That is the first part.

MR. WARREN: I think I have addressed this particular subject to the limit of my ability and it would be fruitless to continue the line of questioning. I have offered you all that I have to offer this morning.

Q Jerry, has former Vice President Agnew consulted either with the President or with any member of the President's official family about remarks he will make this evening?

MR. WARREN: To my knowledge, he has not. I know he has --

Q Will there be a text available through your kind offices? (Laughter)

MR. WARREN: I have no plans set up for that, but we have always assisted Marsh whenever we can. If there are texts, I don't know that there are.

Q This is a good question, Jerry. How, if they are having a black tie dinner for Mr. Rogers, how can they listen to the former Vice President's farewell?

MR. WARREN: The dinner has been set for a long time.

Q At 7:30 p.m.?

MR. WARREN: Oh, yes, it has been set for well over a month.

MORE

#1837

DEPARTMENT OF STATE

DPC 183

TRANSCRIPT OF PRESS, RADIO AND TELEVISION NEWS BRIEFING

MONDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1973, 12:26 P.M.

(ON THE RECORD UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED)

AMBASSADOR McCLOSKEY: I'd like to begin by saying that this role in search of a hero has now found its man and I'd like to introduce George Vest, who will soon be doing the honors here with you and for you -- if he's not too intimidated in the first 48 hours. I'm tell you, as they used to say about the piano player: "Don't shoot him."

(Laughter.)

You should have a press release discussing the American and Yugoslav Cultural Delegations, dealing in cultural affairs.

I'm asked to call to your attention that President Sangoulé Lamizana of Upper Volta is in Washington for several days to confer with American officials about the draught situation in West Africa. He saw President Nixon this morning at the White House and will meet with Deputy Secretary Rush here this afternoon.

Q Is it a private visit, Bob, or official?

A I'd have to say that it is some of both

V. I'd have to say that it is some of both.

Q. Is it a private visit, Bob, or official?

President Nixon this morning at the White House and
spontaneous discussion in West Africa. He saw

Washington for several days to confer with American officials
President Washington of Upper Volta is in

I'm asked to call to your attention that
dating in cultural affairs.

the American and Negroes Cultural Delegations.

You should have a press release discussing
(Randberg.)

upon the piano player: "Don't shoot him."
I'll at 48 hours. I'm tell you, so they need to say
for you -- if he's a not too intimidated in the
who will soon be doing the honors here with you and
found it was and I'd like to introduce George Veat,
by saying that this role in search of a hero has now
WILLBEYARDOR MCCLOSKKEY: I'd like to begin
(ON THE RECORD UNTIL IT IS OTHERWISE NOTED)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 12, 1973, 12:56 P.M.
TRANSCRIPT OF PRESS, RADIO AND TELEVISION NEWS BRIEFING

DEC 183

DEPARTMENT OF STATE

A-2

because he apparently has been mandated by the Heads
of State of the other five Sahel countries -- and they
are Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Mali, Chad -- to present
their case to the United Nations General Assembly.

He came to Washington last Saturday and
is a guest staying at Blair House.

I'm advised that President Lamizana will
hold a press conference at 4 p.m. today at Blair
House and it is available for all coverage.

Inas much as I had nothing else that I was dying
to volunteer, who don't I try to answer your questions.

Q. Bob, some of us have been somewhat puzzled
by a statement that President Nixon made this morning about
the role of the U. S. being that of a peacemaker, and
he harked back for his analogies to the situation
in Lebanon in 1968 and in Jordan in 1970. And, subject
to a number of interpretations, could you give us any more
guidance on that?

A. Well, I have only just had the quickest
opportunity to look at the text of the President's remarks,
after having seen one news-agency account, and I think
it needs to be emphasized that the President was

it needs to be emphasized that the President was
after having seen one news-agency account, and I think
opportunity to look at the text of the President's remark,
Well, I have only just had the quickest
assistance on that?

to a number of interpretations, could you give me any more
in Lebanon in 1968 and in Jordan in 1970. And, subject
to a statement that President Nixon made this morning about
the role of the U. S. being that of a peacemaker, and
by a statement that President Nixon made this morning about
to volunteer, who don't I try to answer your questions.

In case as I had nothing else that I was doing
House and it is available for all coverages.

hold a press conference at 4 p.m. today at Blair
I'm advised that President Ramzana will
be a guest atying at Blair House.

He came to Washington last Saturday and
their case to the United Nations General Assembly.
are Mauritania, Minder, Senegal, Mali, Chad -- to present
of State of the other five State countries -- and they
because he apparently has been mandated by the Heads
of State

Y-S

A-3

speaking about a broad policy objective of the United
States -- which has been put down here in the
second part of his remarks -- and not about a specific
tactic in the area, such as might have been illustrated
by one of the situations to which he referred.

I note, for example, this long sentence:

"But the policy of the United States is that of peacemaker in the area."

He went on from that to pay tribute to the
men who were there for decoration with Medal of Honor
awards.

At another point he says:

"We stand for the right of every nation
in the Middle East to maintain its independence and
security. We want this fighting to end. We want the
fighting to end on a basis where we can build a
lasting peace."

So I'd suggest that any fair interpretation
of the full content of his remarks needs to be looked at
less with regard to a specific tactic than with a
broader overall objective in the Middle East.

Q Bob, all right. If we put aside that

① Bob, all right. If we put aside that

prosperous overall objective in the Middle East, less with regard to a specific tactic than with a
of the full content of his remarks needs to be looked at
So I'd agitate that any fair interpretation
fostering,besee.

fighting to end on a basis where we can build a
security. We want this fighting to end. We want the
in the Middle East to maintain its independence and
"We stand for the right of every nation
At another point he says:

awards.

men who were there for decoration with Medal of Honor
He went on from that to pay tribute to the
besemaker in the area."

"But the policy of the United States is that of
I note, for example, this long sentence:

by one of the situations to which he referred.
tactic in the area, such as might have been illustrated
second part of his remarks -- and not about a specific
area -- which has been put down here in the
aboard about a broad policy objective of the United

E

A-4

specific tactic -- and I think we all know the
specific tactic you're referring to -- how about a
broader tactic, a tactic of support?

This could easily be read as a statement of
support for Israel, a small country, with which the United
States has ties, as much as it did with Lebanon and Jordan
when they were in trouble. So how about that as a reading?
And, while we're at it, could you tell us something
new about the resupply of Israel, the situation?
Have the planes begun to move, or what?

A. Well, without any further extrapolation
off the remarks of the President and addressing the situation
on the ground, I suppose I should point out that the
Soviet airlift has continued at an increased pace,
both with respect to the number of flights and the tonnage
of equipment delivered --

Q. Do you know if any --

A. -- and to say that in our own case we watched
and waited over this situation for several days, pursuing
the objective of achieving a diplomatic arrangement
that would bring an end to the fighting, we have begun
some resupply of Israel; and, to an appreciable extent,

some reverb of laser; and, to an appreciable extent, that would bring an end to the fighting, we have been able to achieve a diplomatic arrangement and waited over this situation for several days, burning

A -- and to say that in our own case we watched Q Do you know it any --

of equipment delivered --

both with respect to the number of lights and the tonnage
Soviet sirlitt has continued at an increased base,
on the ground. I assume I should point out that the
off the remark of the President and addressing the situation
A Well, without any further extrapolation

Have the planes pedd to move, or what?

new about the reverb of laser, the situation?

And, while we're at it, could you tell me something when they were in trompe. So how about that as a reading? States has ties, as much as it did with Lebanon and Jordan ambport for laser, a small country, with which the United

This could easily be read as a statement of
proger tactic, a tactic of ambport?

Specific tactic you're referring to -- how about a
specific tactic -- and I think we all know the

A-4

A-5

this is designed also to prevent this massive airlift
by the Soviets from unsettling the military balance
in the area.

I want to again say that we will continue our
diplomatic efforts in the bilateral channels, in the
first instance. I wish it were possible to report
success; I cannot do that. We have not, however,
given up the effort. The diplomatic channel is still
alive and we continue to hope that it will prove fruitful and a way will be found to bring the fighting in the area to an end.

Since I've gone that far, let me say that the
Secretary has maintained contact throughout the weekend
with a number of the governments, both involved in
the fighting and otherwise interested in its outcome --
including Ambassador Dobrynin here in Washington.

I know of no schedule that would open the
Security Council this afternoon, or today at any time,
in New York; but that, of course, could change, and I'd
advise you -- as always -- to keep in touch with New
York.

Q. Bob, can you give us some sort of a basis as

Q: Bob, can you give me some sort of a basis for York.

Advise you -- as always -- to keep in touch with New York. Put that, of course, could change, and I'd Security Council this afternoon, or today at any time, I know of no schedule that would open the including Ambassador Doolittle here in Washington.

The fighting and otherwise interested in its outcomes -- with a number of the governments, both involved in Secretary has maintained contact throughout the weekend Since I've done that far, let me say that the area to an end.

But and a way will be found to bring the fighting in the alive and we continue to hope that it will prove fruitful given up the effort. The diplomatic channel is still successful; I cannot do that. We have not, however, first instance. I wish it were possible to report diplomatic efforts in theational channels, in the I want to again say that we will continue our in the area.

By the Soviets from settling the military balances this is claimed also to prevent this massive airlift - V-2

B 2

Q Bob, Dr. Kissinger, on Friday, carefully avoided use of the word "massive." He said at that time the airlift was not massive. Now you, today, have called it massive.

Two questions:

Could you give us some idea of whether this was a development that occurred over the weekend, or whether this was a result of new knowledge that we acquired of what has been going into Syria prior to the weekend, and

Too, as a result of this, should we now expect some kind of firm statement from the Secretary?

A We reached the judgment on the characterization of the airlift, I would say over the last 48 hours because, while continuing, as I have already said, it increased.

So far as the second part of your question, John, I would not attempt to issue any declamatory judgments at this time. We are in the position where we were last week when I said we are less interested in name calling than we are in trying to reach a diplomatic solution, and so long as that possibility exists, this is where we will be putting our first emphasis while at the same time as I have said, begun a resupply for Israel.

[lc]

B 2

Q Bob, are the Russians cooperating in that
diplomatic effort to bring an end to the fighting.

A All I want to say is that we are maintaining
contact with them.

Q Bob, there was a report this morning that
48 Air Force personnel from Dover Air Force Base, have been
sent to Israel -- Tel Aviv. Can you confirm this, or
enlighten us?

A I cannot confirm any specific report of
that nature.

I do want to say, since you raised that question
again, that we do not have American military forces or
personnel engaged in the fighting, and I would ask you to
bear that in mind as reports emanate from here or there
to the contrary.

Q Bob, you have said last week, that if it
turns out that there was a massive Soviet airlift, that
of supplies, that this would put a new face on the situation.

I recognize that you have also said that you
don't want to indulge in name calling -- but can you
describe for us what the Administration's view is of
the present new face on the situation?

A Well one view of it is that we have begun

B 3

a resupply effort for Israel. That is, it seems to me
not inconsistent with what I've been saying here last
week that if the Soviet airlift continued and increased,
that -- and the Secretary said that we would take action
in accordance with that --

Now I have said that I am not going to issue
accusatory statements that go to broader issues between
the United States and the Soviet Union while we remain in
contact and in
hope of achieving what we have said was a
diplomatic objective of ours -- and which we would hope
would be a diplomatic objective of the Soviet Union.

Q Bob, in the past, we characterized the
Soviet airlift in various ways as "moderate" and "fairly
substantial" "massive" how would you characterize the
United States resupply effort beyond what you have said?

A I don't think that I could characterize it
in any particular way as of now, since it has only begun.
Maybe I could do more as and if it continues.

Q Well is it a parallel of the Soviet airlift
if I could follow -- it it intended to --

A Go back to what I said -- that we are
concerned that the Soviet airlift will unsettle the balance

concerned that the Soviet airlift will unseize the balance of
A Go back to what I said -- that we are
it I could follow -- it it intended to --

Q Well is it a parallel of the Soviet airlifts
Maybe I could do more as and it it continues.

A I don't think that I could characterize it
United States reapply effort beyond what you have said?
apparential" "massive" how would you characterize the
Soviet airlift in various ways as "moderate" and "fairly
Q Bop, in the past, we characterized the

would be a diplomatic objective of the Soviet Union.
diplomatic objective of oura -- and which we would hope
contact and/nobpe of achieving what we have said was a
in
the United States and the Soviet Union while we remain in
accoutary statements that do to broader issues between
Now I have said that I am not doing to issue

in accordance with that --

week that it the Soviet airlift continued and increased,

not incoherent with what I've been saying here last

a reapply effort for Israel. That is, it seems to me

B 3

B 4

which we have been committed, as a matter of policy, to
maintain for many, many years.

Q Bob, carrying that a step further, does
that mean that if the Soviets reduce their airlift, we
will follow suit?

A Our actions will be guided by the events as they
proceed in the Middle East, and I don't want to answer a
question like that, hypothetically, now, that is going
to pin us to a position from which we may not be able to
move in the future.

Q Bob, can you say when this airlift began?
Your visa plan?

Q What was the question, please?

A The question was: When did this resupply
effort by the United States begin.

And it's going to be difficult for me to be
pinned down to precise times -- but -- let me say o
ON BACKGROUND that I would put it somewhere in the last
thirty hours, roughly, give or take some --

Q Are we now satisfied that we now know
what the Soviet massive airlift contains and is bringing?

A To some extent we do, but I don't think
that we could claim to know everything that is contained

A To some extent we do, but I don't think
what the Soviet massive siriitt contains and is prindin'

Q Are we now astatiated that we now know
epitly pomea, ronddly, dve or tke some --

ON BACKGROUND that I would but it somewheere in the fast
binned down to precise timesa -- put -- let me say o

And it's a going to be difficult for me to be
effort by the United States peabin.

A The question was: When did this reasndly

Yonr vias biau?

Q Bop, can you say when this siriitt pedam?

move in the future.
to bin me to a beation from which we may not be able to
duation like that, pyboteticall, now, that is doing
proceed in the Middle East, and I don't want to answer a

will follow suit?

that mean that if the Soviets reduce their siriitt, we

Q Bop, carrying that a step further, does
maintain for many, many years.

D 4

B 5

in the airlift.

We have some -- I would say roughly 4,000 tons
of equipment, and something on the magnitude of 280
flights, involving different aircraft.

Q Total flights?

Q Since When, Bob?

Q When was that?

Q What day -- Wednesday?

A Roughly, last Wednesday, our time.

Q Bob, I don't think we were splitting a hair
when we go back to the word "massive."

Is it that a continual flow at some point reached
the massive point? Or the flow, itself, has been increasing
within each period -- if you follow me.

Is it a steady flow that went past the point
or is the flow, itself, a greater flow?

A Well, Look, Barry, it's difficult to be
scientific about this.

Q Well, mathematically --

A I have already said that it has continued
and has increased, particularly over the last 48 hours.
Now I don't know how I can respond to the question any

Now I don't know how I can respond to the question any
and has increased, particularly over the last 48 hours.

A I have already said that it has continued
Q Well, mathematically --

scientific apart this.

A Well, Book, Barry, it's a difficult to be
or is the flow, itself, a greater flow?

Is it a steady flow that went past the point
within each period -- if you follow me.

Is it that a continuous flow at some point reached
when we do back to the word "massive."

Q Bop, I don't think we were splitting a hair
A Roughly, last Wednesday, om time.
Q What day -- Wednesday?
Q When was that?
Q Since When, Bop?
Q Total flights?

of equipment, and something on the magnitude of 380

We have some -- I would say roughly 4,000 tons
in the siriift.

B 2

B 6

better than that.

Q Bob, what are the Russians sending?

A I've just said that we know of some of the equipment that is involved. Obviously, it is all military. I wouldn't attempt a breakdown of it, however.

Q Bob, did the United States Government tell the Soviet Union that because its airlift had become massive, it was undertaking a resupply as part of its diplomatic contact with them?

A No comment.

Q Bob, could you perhaps clarify this:

A Let me take Dan Morgan, in the back.

Q Ambassador McCloskey, there have been these reports that some of the planes are going over to Yugoslavia. Would that be consistent with our understanding of Yugoslav nonalignment?

And can you say whether or not that is one of the interested governments that the U.S. is in contact with?

A We have been in contact with the Yugoslav Government, among other governments on the Middle East situation, at various times over the last nine or ten days.

situation, at various times over the last nine or ten days.
Government, among other governments on the Middle East

A We have been in contact with the Yugoalav
with?

the interested governments that the U.S. is in contact
And can you say whether or not that is one of
of Yugoalav nonalignment?

alays. Would that be consistent with our underpinning
reports that some of the planes are bound over to Yugo-

Q Ambassador McClooney, there have been these
A Let me take Dan Mullan, in the pack.
Q Bop, could you perhaps clarify this:
A No comment.

diplomatic contact with them?
masive, it was undertaking a reassembly as part of its
tell the Soviet Union that because its airlift had become
Q Bop, did the United States Government
military. I wouldn't attempt a breakdown of it, however.
the equipment that is involved. Obviously, it is all

A I've just said that we know of some of
Q Bop, what are the Russians sending?

better than that.

B 8

B 7

I'll let you draw your own conclusion with
respect to your question.

Q Bob, on that same question, were you also
in contact with the Greek Government?

A It's hard for me to imagine that we have
not been in contact with governments as close to the area
as Greece. I'm sure the answer is: Yes.

We've been in contact almost around the world
in one fashion or another, depending on -- and the
level of communication would depend upon whether they are
parties to the conflict or whether they have interest in
the area.

Q Bob, on the Yugoslav question, can you
confirm that there have been overflights of Yugoslavia?

A ON BACKGROUND the answer is: yes.

Q Bob, on the diplomatic side, is it still the
U.S. position that after the fighting stops that the cease-
fire lines should be the same place they were before October
6th, or are we now pushing for a new cease-fire in place?

A I am not going to preposition the line of
our thinking right now because, as I told you before, we
have stated our course

I was asked on my course

our thinking right now because, as I told you before, we
A I am not allowed to preposition the line of
4th, or are we now bushing for a new case-tire in place?
fire lines should be the same place they were before October
U.S. position that after the fighting stops that the cease-
Q Bop, on the diplomatic side, is it still the
A ON BACKGROUND the answer is: Yes.
confirm that there have been overlights of Yungalavais?

Q Bop, on the Yungalav question, can you
the area.
parties to the conflict or whether they have interest in
level of communication would depend upon whether they are
in one fashion or another, depending on -- and the
We've been in contact almost around the world
as Greece. I'm sure this answer is: Yes.

not been in contact with governments as close to the area
A It's hard for me to imagine that we have
in contact with the Greek Government?

Q Bop, on that same question, were you also
respect to your question.

B 7

B 8

have stated our preferred course, we are open to the ideas
of others, we have not reached a consensus. Our view
one day might be changed on another day by attempt to accommo-
date a realistic view by someone else.

So I am not going to pin ourselves to a specific
resolution that is going to jeopardize any freedom of
movement we may want to exert in the Security Council.

Q Bob, do you concur with the NATO statement
today that a cutoff of Arab oil would amount to an hostile
act?

A I want to say only in response to that, that we
have not had any threats, officially, from any of the Arab
governments who are oil suppliers. Obviously, we
hope that that would not prove to be the case, and given
that, I wouldn't want to answer the hypothesis of the
question.

Q Bob, could you address this:

Is the U.S. decision based solely on the extent
and the magnitude of the Soviet airlift, or is this a
composit of factors involving also the introduction of
other Arab forces into the conflict -- and also
perhaps, have there been any other Soviet actions or

berruaba, have there been any other Soviet actions or
other Arap forces into the conflict -- and also

composite of factors involving also the introduction of
and the magnitude of the Soviet airlift, or is this a

Q Bop, could you address this:

question.

that, I wouldn't want to answer the hypothesis of the
hope that that would not prove to be the case, and given
dovernments who are oil and pipers. Optionally, we
have not had any threats, officially, from any of the Arap

A I want to say only in response to that, that we
act?

today that a cutoff of Arap oil would amount to an hostile
Q Bop, do you concern with the NATO statement
movement we may want to exert in the Security Council.
resolution that is going to jeopardize any freedom of

so I am not going to pin ourselves to a specific
date a realistic view by someone else.

one day might be changed on another day by attempt to accommo-
date others, we have not reached a consensus. Our view
have stated our preferred course, we are open to the ideas

B 8

B 9

statements which led up to the U.S. decision.

A Well, go back to an answer I made earlier, where I said that the action taken by the United States in resupply is related to the Soviet airlift.

I left open that it obviously has relationship to other questions.

The need, because of losses suffered by Israeli forces -- and I would leave it at that, as just another illustration of the -- as you put it -- composite considerations that go into reaching a decision like this.

Q Bob, when you talked just a moment ago, when you explained this resupply, you talked about trying "not to unsettle the military balance" just trying to understand what you were saying --

It would not unsettle the military balance if you were talking about small stuff ammunition etcetera -- you clearly were talking about the basic weapons of war which would affect the military balance. Is that correct?

A Yes.

[Continued on page C 1]

[Continued on page C 1]

V. Yes.

correct?

which would affect the military balance. Is that
you clearly were talking about the basic weapons of war
were talking about small arms ammunition etcetera --

It would not maettle the military balance if you
understand what you were saying --

"not to maettle the military balance" just trying to
when you explained this reapply, you talked about trying
Q. Pop, when you talked about a moment ago,

considerations that do into rescinding a decision like this.
illustration of the -- so you but it -- composite
forces -- and I would leave it at that, as just another
The need, because of losses suffered by Israel
to other questions.

I left open that it optionally has relationship
reapply is related to the Soviet airlift.

where I said that the action taken by the United States in
A. Well, go back to an answer I made earlier,
statements which led up to the U.S. decision.

B 9

[L.C.]

C-1

Q Bob, is the U.S. resupply going in U.S. military aircraft?

A I am not in a position today to discuss the modes of transportation by which this resupply is going through.

Q Bob, could you tell us whether any of the U.S. resupplies have reached Israel already?

A Yes, they have.

Q Is the goal of the American resupply to re-establish the military balance in the Middle East?

A In large measure, yes.

Q Bob, is the resupply related or linked directly in any way to some diplomatic concessions on the part of the Israelis, or might it be? Have we said, "We will give you this if you will do that," at a certain point?

A I wouldn't look at this kind of decision quite as nakedly as you pose the question. It just is unworthy of all the considerations that go into this kind of decision. There is just no yes or no answer

kind of decision. There is just no yes or no answer
unworthy of all the considerations that do into this
quite as nicely as you pose the question. It just is
A I wouldn't look at this kind of decision
point?

"We will give you this if you will do that," at a certain
the part of the Iarosia, or might it be? Have we said,
directly in any way to some diplomatic concessions on

Q Bop, is the reaapply related or linked
A In large measure, yes.

eatsplish the military balance in the Middle East?

Q Is the cost of the American reaapply to re-
A Yes, they have.

U.S. reaapplies have reached Iarosel already?

Q Bop, could you tell me whether any of the
doing through.

the modes of transportation by which this reaapply is
A I am not in a position today to discuss
military aircraft?

Q Bop, is the U.S. reaapply doing in U.S.

C-1

C-2

to a question like that, Dick, I'm sorry.

Q Bob, the Secretary, on a number of occasions, has said that any deterioration of this situation in the Middle East might affect detente between the United States and the Soviet Union. And you mentioned the broader issues. Does the Secretary believe that this airlift and Soviet actions in the Middle East are taking advantage of the spirit of detente?

A John, I just wouldn't want to answer that directly, given what I've already said about broader issues between the United States and the Soviet Union which we clearly would want to see preserved and would think that they had a mutual interest in seeing those principles preserved. And I said that I'm just not going to offer any cosmic judgment in light of the present situation and right at this time.

Q Bob, may I ask you -- this is within the context of the broader situation, but it's more specific -- unless you've answered it and I haven't heard. The Secretary said on Friday that if this thing became

Secretary said on Friday that if this thing became
unless you've answered it and I haven't heard. The
context of the broader situation, but it's a more specific --

Q. Bop, may I ask you -- this is within the
present situation and right at this time.

doing to offer any cosmic judgment in light of the
principles preserved. And I said that I'm just not
think that they had a mutual interest in seeing those
which we clearly would want to see preserved and would
inauge between the United States and the Soviet Union
directly, given what I've already said about broader

A. John, I just wouldn't want to answer that
detente?

Middle East are taking advantage of the spirit of
believe that this airlift and Soviet actions in the
You mentioned the broader issues. Does the Secretary
between the United States and the Soviet Union. And
situation in the Middle East might affect detente
occasions, has said that any deterioration of this
Q. Bop, the Secretary, on a number of
to a question like that, Dick, I'm sorry.

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C-3

massive, or larger, or whatever, the U.S. would have to
take a firm stand.

Now, as I interpret your statements here today,
the resupply is only part of the firm stand that might
have to be taken.

A I can assure you, Stu, that we have been firm
also in our diplomatic communications and conversations with
the Soviet Union. So there should be no mistake about that.

Q Bob, just as a technical question, these
figures that you gave us ON BACKGROUND on Soviet resupply,
are you talking about for Egypt and Syria, or one or the
other, or what?

The figures on 4,000 tons, was that on
background? All right, let's put it on the record.
Where are they going, Syria or Egypt? Or both?

A Both.

Q Bob, to re-establish this military balance,
will it be necessary for the United States to send
approximately as much as the Soviets have sent? I
mean you are talking approximately 4,000 tons.

A Again, Dick, qualitative judgments can't
simply be arrived on a quantitative basis. So I don't

simply be arrived on a quantitative basis. So I don't
mean you are talking approximately 4,000 tons.

approximately as much as the Soviets have sent? I
will it be necessary for the United States to send

Q. Bob, to re-eat欺 this military balance,
A. Both.

Where are they going, Syria or Egypt? Or both?
background? All right, let's put it on the record.
The figures on 4,000 tons, was that on
other, or what?

are you talking about for Egypt and Syria, or one or the
figures that you gave us ON BACKGROUND on Soviet reëmbly,
Q. Bob, just as a technical question, these
the Soviet Union. So there should be no mistake about that.
also in our diplomatic communications and conversations with
A. I can assure you, Stu, that we have been firm
have to be taken.

the reëmbly is only part of the firm stand that might
Now, as I interpret your statements here today,
take a firm stand.

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C-4

think that you can apply any kind of a specific formula.

We are in close contact with the situation.
We are quite aware of what Israel's needs are. We have
begun a resupply. I can't point to Figure X to say that
there and then we have reached the point that we need to
do no more or to do more. It is just not allowable to
discuss in that context.

Q Could you say anything on our assessments
of Arab objectives in this war, whether they have changed
at all, and whether this relates at all to our decision to
resupply?

A It borders on the impossible to discuss
with any confidence what Arab motives and objectives
have been in beginning this conflict. One might feel
confident one day with a line of speculation, and it may
look different another day. I think we will just have to
reserve judgment in that regard until the fighting has
ended, when we have a little more time to assess that
kind of a question.

Q Bob, I would like to pursue the discussion
a little bit earlier about the question of tactics in this
whole situation. The President raised these two specific

whole situation. The President raised these two specific
a little bit earlier about the question of tactics in this
Q Pop, I would like to pursue the discussion
kind of a question.

ended, when we have a little more time to see if that
reserve judgment in that regard until the fighting has
look different another day. I think we will have to
confident one day with a line of specification, and it may
have been in beginning this conflict. One might feel
with any confidence what Arab motives and objectives
A It borders on the impossible to discuss
rearrify?

at all, and whether this relates at all to our decision to
of Arab objectives in this war, whether they have changed
Q Could you say anything on our asements
discuss in that context.

do no more or to do more. It is just not allowable to
there and then we have resolved the point that we need to
peddle a rehash. I can't point to Figure X to say that
We are quite aware of what Israel's needs are. We have
We are in close contact with the situation.

think that you can supply any kind of a specific formula.

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C-5

historic situations, the 1970 and the 1958 situations.
And you discouraged us specifically from including
tactics which have not been identified here. Now, are
you referring to the landing of American troops in
Lebanon in 1958 as something that you don't think the
President was talking about when he said that this kind of
thing was a part of our policy?

A Obviously I can't, by making a statement,
prejudice a position to be taken by the President. And
with that remark thereby hangs nothing, please. I have
attempted in the short time I had coming out here to
give you my view and the view of the Department as to
the President's intention in his remarks. I simply can't
improve on what I've already said. And any attempt to
delineate it further is going to be quite unproductive.

Q I wanted to just to a little bit further.
It just seems to obvious that, regardless of what is said
here, or the vague way in which you have discussed this
here, that the President's remarks are going to be
interpreted around the world as a threat to use American
troops. And you are kind of downplaying that in your
best understanding of what the President meant. I think

beat understanding of what the President meant. I think
troops. And you are kind of downplaying that in your
interpreted around the world as a threat to use American
here, that the President's remarks are going to be
here, or the same way in which you have discussed this
It just seems to obvious that, regardless of what is said

I wanted to just to a little bit further.
deliberate it further is going to be quite unproductive.
improve on what I've already said. And any attempt to
the President's intention in his remarks. I simply can't
give you my view and the view of the Department as to
attempted in the short time I had coming out here to
with that remark thereby handle nothing, please. I have
prejudice a position to be taken by the President. And
A
Obviously I can't, by making a statement,
thing was a part of our policy?

President was talking about when he said that this kind of
Reagan in 1988 as something that you don't think the
You referring to the landing of American troops in
tactics which have not been identified here. Now, are
And you discouraged as specifically from including
historic situations, the 1910 and the 1928 situations.

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C-6

it would be very helpful if we could get some clarification
on that.

A Well, I've done as best I can under the
circumstances. And I certainly have not by any remarks
I've made encouraged any line of speculation such as you
suggest.

Q Bob, in clarification of your answer to
Marvin's question, as I understand what you said, it
would be fair to assume we are shipping planes and tanks
to Israel.

A No.

Q Marvin asked you -- the question was about
ammunition doesn't mean anything, he assumes we are
talking about major instruments of war.

A So far as the Soviet airlift was concerned.

Q No. American.

Q Restoring the balance.

A Oh. Then if the direct question is,
"What is the United States sending to Israel at this
time?" the answer is I'm not going to discuss it.

Q Has there been any change in the nature of the
Soviet equipment being sent to Syria and Egypt; rather than
just being more of the same, have they stepped up the nature

[c]

C-7

of the supplies they are sending?

A I don't know that I can honestly answer
that with any confidence. I'm sure that there has been
a mixture of different kinds of equipment running from one
scale to another. I can't be expected to declare an
inventory here. I just don't have it.

Q Bob, can you say whether the U.S. resupply
effort is all coming from this country, or is some of it
coming from Europe?

A No comment.

Q Bob, I would like to go back to my question.
Perhaps you didn't understand it.

A I didn't understand the question then in
the sense it was put.

Q Well, I didn't phrase it well I'm sure.
But what I was asking about, you're talking about the
resupply, and you have explained it within the context
of seeking not to unsettle the military balance in the
Middle East. I then went on to say that I assumed
thereby that you're not talking about ammunition but
you're talking about, as I put it before and I would
repeat it, the basic weapons of war. When you're talking
about something as large as the military balance in an area,

apout something as large as the military balance in an area, rebeat it, the basic weapons of war. When you're talking you're talking apout, as I but it before and I would furtherly that you're not talking apout ammunition put Middle East. I then went on to say that I assumed of seeking not to misettle the military balance in the reambly, and you have explained it within the context But what I was talking apout, you're talking apout the Q Well, I didn't flush it well I'm sure. the sense it was but.

A I didn't understand the question then in behalf you didn't understand it.

Q Bop, I would like to go back to my question. A No comment.

coming from Europe?

effort is all coming from this country, or is some of it Q Bop, can you say whether the U.S. reambly inventory here. I just don't have it.

scare to another. I can't be expected to declare an
a mixture of different kinds of equipment running from one
that with any confidence. I'm sure that there has been
A I don't know that I can honestly answer
of the amphibies they are sending?

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C-8

it's not the number of bullets each side has but the
number of planes and tanks.

A Well, I would like then the record to show
that my answer to that is that I'm not going to discuss
the nature of the items in the U.S. resupply to Israel.

Q But you do put it within the context of a
larger effort to maintain the military balance?

A It is designed to maintain the military
balance.

Q Bob, I don't understand what you mean by
military balance. The Israelis have obviously made gains
in Syria; the Arabs have made gains in Sinai. If we are
trying to restore a military balance, do we, in effect,
think the Arabs have gone as far as they should go?

A No, I'm sorry. When we talk about military
balance we're talking about inventories.

Q Bob, taking what the Secretary said the
other day about both countries, the United States and
the Soviet Union, having traditional relationships in
the area and having on-going supply relationships, you
today said that we and the Soviet Union have a broader
interest in preserving other relationships. Does this

C-9

mean that, in our judgment, what the Soviet Union has done
so far has not proceeded that point of irresponsibility that
was mentioned last week?

A I said, Marilyn, that I am not going to
offer judgments of that nature at this time.

Q Bob, do we know yet if Faisal has committed
troops to the Syrian front.

Q What was your question?

Q Do we know yet whether King Faisal has
committed troops to the Syrian front. And, if so, do
we have any idea how many?

A The answer is I don't know, so I can't
answer the second question. I'll look into it.

Q Thank you, Bob.

(Whereupon the briefing was concluded at 12:58 p.m.)