Memorandum from Chaim Weizmann to President Harry S. Truman

May 25, 1948 MEMORANDUM TO THE PRESIDENT FROM: CHAIM WEIZMANN Chlo. SUBJECT: Israel's two basic problems. 1. Israel is now wrestling with two basic problems: first, national survival in the face of Arab aggression supported by the British; second, the resettlement and rehabilitation of the homeless DP's. 2. There is little hope that the Arabs will accept the cease fire order without crippling limitations. The British still feel that they can divide American opinion and render American policy irresolute; the Arabs still rely on guidance and assistance by the British. Only action can bring peace to the Middle East, and the most effective action with the British and Arabs is a modifi- cation of the arms embargo established by the United States. 3. Military aid is thus the first basic problem which confronts the new State. It requires especially anti-tank weapons; anti-aircraft weapons; planes; and heavy artillery. By American standards the needed quantities are extremely limited but in the context of ARCHIVES RECORDS SERVICE"