Given the current state of affairs in Syria, the United States recently imposed a series of additional sanctions against Syrian individuals and entities. On April 29, 2011, President Obama issued Executive Order 13572 blocking property and prohibiting certain transactions related to Syria. On May 18, 2011, this Order was expanded to include additional high-ranking Syrian government officials. Please read the attached for additional information as we urge clients and friends to proceed with caution when dealing with any transaction involving Syrian individuals or entities.