TEHERAN: The Iranian Prime Minister, Dr Mohammad Mossadeq, today [June 2] rejected President Truman’s appeal to settle the Anglo-Iranian oil dispute by negotiations with the British Government. He made a statement to ... the Senate and added...: “We will receive any delegation provided it is appointed by the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company. If it wants the Oil Company can even appoint a British Cabinet Minister.”

On President Truman’s letter of appeal yesterday, Dr Mossadeq told the Senate today: “In any transaction, if a third party interferes his word has no value unless he has power of attorney to act on behalf of one of the parties. Mr Truman recognises the principle of nationalization, but may be the British are not bound by Mr Truman’s recognition. ...” ...

Dr Mossadeq said: “Mr Truman thinks we will accept delegations from the oil company which at the same time represent the British Government. I am sure we never said such a thing.” He insisted that the agenda for discussion with an Anglo-Iranian Oil Company delegation must be precisely defined beforehand.

Published in Dawn, June 3rd, 2026