Cable No. 611, Foreign Minister to the Charge d'Affaires [Tanabe], 'Problem of the Release of the American Hostages (Special Message to Foreign Minister Velayati)'

Number: 064840-002

Draft Telegram

Drafted: July 30, 1985

Primary: Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau Director-General

To: Charge d’Affaires to Iran      

From: Foreign Minister

Problem of the Release of the American Hostages (Special Message to Foreign Minister Velayati)

No. 611 Secret Urgent (Priority Processing)

(Limited Distribution)

Outgoing Telegram Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau Director-General No. 610 Separate Message

1. On the occasion of Majlis Speaker Rafsanjani’s recent visit to Japan, I believe that a fruitful discussion took place on bilateral relations and international issues. Among those, I think that it was significant that there took place a frank exchange of views on what is called “international terrorism,” an issue of great concern between us. Our country, as you know, opposes all forms of terrorism. Your country, too, has similarly made clear its position of rejecting international terrorism.  Having heard in this regard that your country consulted with Syria on the TWA Incident and made efforts for its resolution, I feel a deep respect for the efforts that your country made.

2. On the other hand, seven American hostages are still being held in Lebanon. We are calling from a humanitarian standpoint for the release without delay of these seven innocent persons. On this point, I think that your country’s position is the same.

3. We think that every possible effort should be pursued for the release of these seven persons. If you think it possible for your country to exercise some form of influence for the release of the hostages, I would appreciate your country doing its utmost.

(End)