Telegram from Seán Murphy to Frederick H. Boland (New York)
(No. 1)

¹ See No. 454.

² The relevant section of Cosgrave’s speech to the Dublin Chamber of Commerce on 1 November 1956 was ‘But what are we to say of the action which has now been undertaken by two respected members of the United Nations? Article 2(4) of the Charter binds all members to “refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state”. Despite this article and contrary to the whole spirit of the Charter, Israel has invaded Egypt, and now the Government of Great Britain and France have compounded this aggression and are actually using force not against the aggressor but against the victim. I should make it clear that I am not setting up in judgement on the issues that divide Israel and her neighbours, or Egypt and the users of the Suez Canal. These are complex questions and probably no side is altogether blameless. But in this particular instance – whatever the provocation may have been – it is clearly Israel that is the aggressor; it is Israel not Egypt that ought to be restrained and it is the United Nations, not England and France, that ought to do the restraining. As I have said, a small country like our own can only exist if international obligations are respected, including this vital obligation to seek a peaceful solution to differences. It is therefore in my view the duty of an Irish Minister for External Affairs to speak out when these obligations are flouted and when countries – even countries with which we have many ties – resort to war as an instrument of policy. It may be said – indeed it often is said – that since a country in our position cannot have any military influence over the course of events, it is in vain for us to declare our views. I do not share that opinion. The very existence of the United Nations and of its charter is a testimony to the moral force of public opinion. We can play our part in forming and in expressing public opinion where important matters of principle are involved.’
See NAI DFA 5/305/173/II, telegram 2 (immediate), Murphy to Boland, 1.30pm, 1 November 1956