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EO 12956Executive OrderClinton · D

Executive Order 12956

Executive Order 12956 of March 13, 1995

This executive order designates the Israel-United States Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation (BIRD Foundation) as a public international organization under the International Organizations Immunities Act, granting it privileges, exemptions, and immunities under U.S. law while preserving any existing or future protections from treaties or congressional action.

Federal Register Open PDF 60 FR 14199

Key directives

  • Designate Israel-United States Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation as public international organization under IOIA
  • Preserve existing or future privileges from international agreements or congressional action

Timeline

Immediate

  • Designation takes effect upon signing; Foundation now entitled to IOIA privileges, exemptions, and immunities

Near term (90d)

  • No specific near-term actions required by text

Long term

  • Foundation operates with ongoing international organization status under U.S. law

Risks & tensions

  • Minimal tension: explicit savings clause avoids conflict with existing agreements but creates layered legal framework
  • Vague on scope: 'privileges, exemptions, and immunities' are broad IOIA categories; specific operational impacts not detailed
Executive Order 12956: Executive Order 12956 of March 13, 1995 · Executive Orders