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

Defense & Security Trade Economy & Labor

In simple terms

This notice continues for one year the national emergency declared in 2004 regarding Syria's actions, maintaining sanctions and export restrictions authorized under Executive Order 13338 and subsequent related orders. The continuation is based on ongoing findings that Syria's regime poses an unusual and extraordinary threat to U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economy through its support for terrorism, weapons programs, and human rights abuses.

Federal Register Open PDF 82 FR 21909

Record & deadlines

May 9, 2017Signed
Signed by the President
May 10, 2017FR published
Published in the Federal Register · 82 FR 21909
Federal Register PDF
May 11, 2018
Continued national emergency expires unless extended again
May 11, 2017
Prior emergency expiration date; continuation takes effect

Key directives

Continue national emergency declared May 11, 2004 for 1 year beyond May 11, 2017
Maintain all measures adopted in Executive Orders 13338, 13399, 13460, 13572, 13573, 13582, 13606, and 13608
Publish notice in Federal Register
Transmit notice to Congress

Related orders

What to expect

Immediate

National emergency continues in effect beyond May 11, 2017
Existing sanctions and blocking authorities remain active

Near term (90d)

Annual review and potential congressional oversight of continued emergency

Long term

Emergency subject to potential termination based on changes in Syrian government composition, policies, and actions
Continued sanctions regime until policy conditions are met

Risks & tensions

Perpetual emergency status since 2004 raises questions about indefinite sanctions without congressional authorization
Vague conditions for termination ('consider changes') provide wide executive discretion
Humanitarian assistance delivery hindered by sanctions regime despite rhetorical support