Suspending Restrictions on U.S. Relations With the Palestine Liberation Organization

President Clinton suspended four statutory restrictions on U.S. relations with the Palestine Liberation Organization through August 12, 1997, certifying it was in the national interest and that the PLO/Palestinian Authority was complying with peace process commitments. The determination was issued under authority of the Middle East Peace Facilitation Act of 1995.

Federal Register Open PDF 62 FR 9903

Impact dates

Aug 12, 1997
Suspension of statutory restrictions expires

Key directives

Suspend Section 307 of Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 re PLO through August 12, 1997
Suspend Section 114 of State Authorization Act re PLO through August 12, 1997
Suspend Section 1003 of Foreign Relations Authorization Act through August 12, 1997
Suspend Section 37 of Bretton Woods Agreement Act re IMF observer status for PLO through August 12, 1997
Certify PLO/PA compliance with section 604(b)(4) commitments
Certify prior funds used for intended purposes
Transmit determination to Congress
Publish in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Secretary of State · State Department

Timeline

Immediate

Suspension of four statutory restrictions takes effect
PLO/PA diplomatic restrictions lifted on U.S. aid, UN participation, and IMF observer status

Near term (90d)

Suspension expires August 12, 1997 unless extended
Congress receives formal transmission

Long term

—

Risks & tensions

Temporary nature creates policy uncertainty; requires renewal for continued engagement
Congressional oversight tension: mandatory transmission suggests legislative monitoring
Certification requirements create accountability but also political exposure if PLO compliance questioned
Vague 'successor entities' language leaves scope uncertain