The Arab states and the Falkland Islands crisis

This file concerns reactions to the Falkland Islands conflict between Britain and Argentina in the Gulf States, which often involve comparisons with Palestine. It contains correspondence relating to:

• Discussions of the conflict with the Amir of Qatar’s Advisor Hasan Kamel, who expressed sympathy yet made no guarantee to support the UK in international fora
• Kuwait’s position on the conflict with a statement rejecting the use of force to solve disputes
• The problems around searching for Arab support using the argument of the rejection of the forceful acquisition of territory
• Comment on the conflict in the Arab press with the Gulf News criticising Britain’s use of military force and the Khaleej Times contrasting the islands with Palestine and accusing Britain of double standards; with letters of rebuke from the Consul-General in Dubai P R M Hinchliffe
• Rumours that Israel is supplying Argentina with military spares
• The Palestine Liberation Organisation’s (PLO) expression of support for Argentina
• The Kuwaiti Under-Secretary for Information Sheikh Nasir Al Jabir Al Sabah’s request for historical and geographical information on the Falkland Islands, particularly the etymology of Grytviken; and the FCO’s attempts to find this
• Views on the conflict in the UAE
• The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) States’ votes on the Latin American-led Resolution on the Falkland Islands at the UN; and enquiries into why the UAE voted in favour
• The possible export of Falkland Islands mutton to the Gulf.