US extends sanctions on Syria for one year

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IANS | 10 May, 2012
US President Barack Obama has decided to extend the existing sanctions on Syria for one year, citing the "unusual and extraordinary threat" posed by the Arab nation to US national security.

In a notice sent to Congress, the president has stated that the actions and policies being pursued by the Syrian government "continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy and economy of the United States", Xinhua reported.

He accused Syria, among others, of obstructing the Lebanese government's ability to function effectively, pursuing chemical and biological weapons, and supporting terrorist organisations.

More than 9,000 people have been killed in Syria since the outbreak of a popular uprising against President Bashar al-Assad in March, 2011, the UN said.