ExecutiveOrdersEO
Notice 13338NoticeObama · D

Presidential Notice 13338

Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Actions of the Government of Syria

President Obama continued for one year the national emergency declared in 2004 regarding Syria's support for terrorism, weapons programs, and interference in Lebanon and Iraq. The notice extends sanctions authority under Executive Orders 13338, 13399, and 13460 beyond May 11, 2011, while condemning Syria's violence against peaceful protesters.

Federal Register Open PDF 76 FR 24791

Impact dates

  1. Continued national emergency expires unless extended again

  2. Prior emergency expiration date; continuation takes effect

Key directives

  • Continue national emergency declared May 11, 2004 for 1 year beyond May 11, 2011
  • Publish notice in Federal Register
  • Transmit notice to Congress
  • Consider changes in Syrian government policies in determining future continuation or termination

Timeline

Immediate

  • Continuation of national emergency and sanctions authorities beyond May 11, 2011

Near term (90d)

  • Annual review of Syrian government policies and actions for potential termination of emergency

Long term

  • Potential modification or termination of emergency based on Syrian government behavior changes

Risks & tensions

  • Timing coincides with Arab Spring protests in Syria, creating tension between sanctions pressure and escalating violence
  • Vague standard for 'changes in policies and actions' leaves termination criteria unclear
  • Condemnation of violence against protesters signals potential for additional measures if situation deteriorates
Presidential Notice 13338: Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Actions of the Government of Syria · Executive Orders