Untitled report on Soviet interests in the Middle East

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Beirut, Aug 3, 1949

Number 22/ The Russian Commission is showing serious interest in developments in the political situation of the [Middle] East.  They are particularly interested in the following matters:

First – They believe that the Turkish General Oriani’s trip to Damascus includes signing a military agreement for establishing military cooperation between Syria and Turkey. Also that Colonel Bahij Al-Kallash’s transfer from the position of Commander of the Armed Forces to Commander of Al-Jazira Battalion was done for this purpose.

That’s why the Russian Commission is interested in order to gather precise information about this.

Second – the Commission believes that the British and the Americans are conspiring with the Turks against Russia and the Communists.

Despite their interest in these arrangements, the Russians are likewise pursuing new arrangements to counter them.  I found out the things that the Russians are doing currently, the British and Americans and their allies have no clue as to the new plans.

Third – The Russians are interested in knowing the types of military aid from the British and the Americans to Syria.  They are seeking to find out detailed information about this.