ExecutiveOrdersEO
Notice 13338NoticeBiden · D

Presidential Notice 13338

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

President Biden extended for one year the national emergency regarding Syria originally declared in 2004 under Executive Order 13338, maintaining sanctions and export restrictions. The notice condemns the Assad regime and its Russian and Iranian backers while calling for ceasefire, humanitarian access, and political settlement per UN Security Council Resolution 2254.

Federal Register Open PDF 86 FR 25793

Impact dates

  1. Continued national emergency expires unless extended again

Key directives

  • Continue national emergency declared May 11, 2004 for 1 year beyond May 11, 2021
  • Maintain blocking of property of certain persons
  • Maintain prohibition on exportation/re-exportation of certain goods to Syria
  • Publish notice in Federal Register
  • Transmit notice to Congress

Timeline

Immediate

  • National emergency continues in effect beyond May 11, 2021
  • Sanctions and export prohibitions under EO 13338 and subsequent orders remain active

Near term (90d)

—

Long term

  • Emergency subject to annual review; continuation or termination depends on Syrian government policy changes

Risks & tensions

  • Perpetual emergency status normalizes long-term sanctions without congressional authorization
  • Diplomatic signal of no near-term normalization with Assad regime despite regional pressure from some allies
  • Humanitarian access demands contrast with sanctions that may impede civilian relief
Presidential Notice 13338: Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Actions of the Government of Syria · Executive Orders