[5] At the time of the split from the Moslem League, the IML held negotiations with representatives of the Ethiopian government.
The Ethiopians offered the IML assurances that if Eritrea enter into union with Ethiopia, Islamic traditions would be respected and schools would teach in Arabic language alongside Amharic.
[6] After receiving these assurances the IML opted for support of a union between Eritrea and Ethiopia, fearing that an independent Eritrean state could be dominated by Italian settlers.
[6] In areas like Keren and around Massawa, the IML was able to mobilize significant sectors in support of the unionist cause.
The telegram was significant as it marked the beginning of protests against Tedla Bairu's cabinet.