Coll 28/97 ‘Persia. Diaries. Tehran Intelligence Summaries’ [‎171v] (342/749)

Internal Security.
Kuh-i-galu.
6. A column of Persian troops, some 1,500 strong, has marched peacefully
through the Bahmai country and was to go on to Izeh (Malamir) in Janeki, the
scene of a minor disaster to Persian troops in May 1943, since when the area has
not known them. The column was accompanied by General Jahanbani and
Morteza Quli Bakhtiari. The Bahmai surrendered some arms and the military
commanders have brought to notice at an appropriate moment, the Noruz
promotions being under consideration, that they dare venture into tribal country.
Honour is satisfied, although the Bahmai are not Boir Ahmadi nor even Qashgai.
Fars.
7. There is further reliable evidence of the increase of Nasir Qashgai’s
influence throughout Ears. In addition to the Mamassani, whose inclination
towards Nasir was reported in last week’s summary, the Khamseh tribes are now
reported to be drifting into his orbit. It is true that General Jahanbani’s policy,
which is partly imposed on him by the weakness of the Government and partly by
his own propensity to seek the immediate easy way, is keeping the peace for the
moment, but it is creating a serious problem Which the Government will have to
tackle some day. And if the tribes do not create disturbances during the spring
migration it will be a proof of the strength of Nasir’s influence over them rather
than of their fear of reprisals by Government. It is a reasonable hope that Nasir
will endeavour to show T that he can keep the tribes in order.
Russian Affairs.
8. The report in Summary No. 9/44, paragraph 17, to the effect that there is
now to be a unified Soviet command in Persia has been confirmed. An officer,
Lieutenant-General Sovietnikov,senior to Lieutenant-General Gaidukov, has
arrived to take up this command. Gaidukov remains as deputv Commander-in-
chief and Major-General Erishkeyitch has been appointed Chief of Staff. It is
understood that the Transportation command under General Kargin remains
independent and continues to be under the direct orders of Moscow.^
9. More authentic reports than the rumours recently circulating have been
received of an increase of Russian troops along the Persian—Turkish frontier,
notably at Shahpur, Khoi and Bazirgan. I he reports come from two sources and
speak of considerable numbers, but it should not yet be accepted that these are
more than normal reliefs.
British A ffairs.
10. The Commander-in-chief, Persia and Iraq Force, visited Tehran durino-
the week
H O n the 9th March Sir Reader Bullard presented his Letters of Credence
to the Shah on his appointment as ambassador.
Tehran, 12th March, 1944.