Updated Syrian Sanctions Regulations Aim to Facilitate Humanitarian Aid and Internet Access Summary: On June 5, 2024, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) amended the Syrian Sanctions Regulations (SSR) and issued revised frequently asked questions (FAQs) to facilitate humanitarian assistance and Internet-based communication services for Syrian civilians. Key Changes: 1. Incorporation of Statutes and Executive Orders: * Added prohibitions and bases for Specially Designated National (SDN) designations from various statutes and executive orders. 2. Extended Authorization for Internet-Based Communication Services: * Expanded the general license to cover additional Internet-related technologies and services. * Introduced a case-by-case license review for exporting Internet-related services to Syria. 3. Expansion of Services for NGOs: * Clarified and expanded authorized activities for non-governmental organizations (NGOs). * Permitted reliance on representations by fund originators for processing authorized transactions by U.S. financial institutions. 4. Extension of Authorization for International Organizations: * Expanded the general license to cover additional international organizations. * Removed the requirement for contractors/grantees to provide copies of agreements to U.S. persons relying on the license. * Clarified reliance for U.S. financial institutions. 5. Incorporation of General License 22 (GL 22): * Incorporated GL 22 into the SSR, authorizing specific activities in northeastern and northwestern Syria. * Published a list of authorized areas in the Federal Register. 6. New General License for Foreign Sanctions Evaders (FSE): * Created a new license authorizing transactions involving Syrian FSEs, subject to certain restrictions. 7. Amendments to Other General Licenses: * Clarified authorized legal services and eliminated some reporting requirements. * Expanded authorization for emergency medical services. Implications: * Facilitates humanitarian aid to Syrian civilians. * Improves access to Internet and communication services. * Streamlines compliance for NGOs and international organizations. * Provides guidance on authorized transactions involving Syrian FSEs.