DetDeterminationG.W. Bush · R

Presidential Determination

Waiver and Certification of Statutory Provisions Regarding the Palestine Liberation Organization Office

In simple terms

President Bush waived section 1003 of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1987 for six months, allowing the Palestine Liberation Organization to maintain its office in Washington, D.C., certifying this as important to U.S. national security interests. The Secretary of State was directed to transmit this determination to Congress and publish it in the Federal Register.

Record & deadlines

  1. Signed

    Signed by the President

  2. FR published

    Published in the Federal Register · 72 FR 61033

  3. Waiver expires (6 months from signing)

Key directives

  • Waive section 1003 of Anti-Terrorism Act of 1987 for 6 months
  • Transmit determination to Congress
  • Publish determination in Federal Register

Who is ordered

What to expect

Immediate

  • Waiver takes effect upon signing
  • PLO office may continue operations

Near term (90d)

  • Six-month waiver period runs through approximately April 11, 2008

Long term

  • Potential need for renewal or alternative arrangement after waiver expires

Risks & tensions

  • Periodic waiver requirement creates recurring political friction
  • Balancing counterterrorism statute with diplomatic engagement on Israeli-Palestinian issue
  • Uncertainty about post-waiver status if not renewed
Presidential Determination: Waiver and Certification of Statutory Provisions Regarding the Palestine Liberation Organization Office · Executive Orders