Support for the Repeal of the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019

Dear Chairman Risch, Ranking Member Shaheen, Chairman Mast, and Ranking Member Meeks:

On behalf of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, I write in support of the bipartisan effort to fully and permanently repeal the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019 (Caesar Act).

Given the fall of the Assad regime and the emergence of a transitional government, the Caesar Act no longer serves the strategic interests of the United States. While the Caesar Act was originally enacted to hold the Assad regime accountable for grave human rights abuses, there are ample other authorities for sanctions to achieve this objective. 

Failure to repeal the Caesar Act will significantly restrict the ability of American companies to invest and engage in commercial activity in Syria. Even with recent waivers and executive actions by the Trump Administration, the six-month renewal cycle and the threat of sanctions “snapback” create a climate of uncertainty that deters long-term investment and planning.

American businesses require clarity and predictability to operate effectively in any market, and the ambiguity surrounding the Caesar Act’s future leaves U.S. firms at a competitive disadvantage compared to our global competitors. Without full repeal, American companies will continue to be sidelined while others shape the future of the Syrian economy.

We urge Congress to act decisively and fully repeal the Caesar Act. Doing so will not only advance American economic interests but also contribute to regional stability and the long-term prosperity of the Syrian people. Thank you for your leadership and consideration.

Sincerely,                                                                 

John Murphy
Senior Vice President and
Head of International
U.S. Chamber of Commerce