ExecutiveOrdersEO
DetDeterminationG.W. Bush · R

Presidential Determination

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

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., citing U.S. national security interests. The Secretary of State was directed to transmit this determination to Congress and publish it in the Federal Register.

Federal Register Open PDF 73 FR 22265

Impact dates

  1. Waiver expires (6 months from signing)

  2. Transmit determination to Congress

  3. Publish determination in Federal Register

Key directives

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

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Waiver takes effect upon signing (April 10, 2008)
  • PLO office operations may continue

Near term (90d)

  • Six-month waiver period runs through October 10, 2008
  • Congressional notification required

Long term

  • Potential need for renewal or extension of waiver after October 2008

Risks & tensions

  • Balances counterterrorism law against diplomatic engagement with PLO
  • Temporary nature creates recurring decision point for future administrations
  • Potential congressional scrutiny of national security justification
Presidential Determination: Waiver and Certification of Statutory Provisions Regarding the Palestine Liberation Organization Office · Executive Orders