FR 2021-00607

The document titled "In the Matter of the Amendment of the Designation of ISIL Sinai Province (and Other Aliases) as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist," published in the Federal Register, announces an update made by the State Department. This update involves adding new aliases to the designation of ISIL Sinai Province as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. Such designations entail identifying entities associated with terrorism, and in this instance, additional names like ISIS-Sinai Province and Wilayat Sayna have been included. The decision follows consultations with the Attorney General and the Secretary of the Treasury, indicating an interdepartmental agreement on the updated classification.

Significant Issues and Concerns

One of the primary concerns regarding this document is the lack of a detailed explanation or context for the designation. While it mentions that there is a "sufficient factual basis" for the action, it does not elaborate on what that factual basis entails, nor does it delve into the behaviors or incidents that underpin this designation. Without this context, readers might question the reasons behind such a serious label.

Additionally, the document references Section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224 without providing any background or summary of what this order encompasses. Marking entities under this order can lead to significant legal and financial consequences, but the document does not state what these consequences might be or any actions resulting directly from the designation.

Furthermore, the notice lacks transparency about the consultation process with other governmental figures like the Attorney General and the Secretary of the Treasury. It mentions their involvement without shedding light on how their inputs shaped the conclusion.

Broad Public Impact

This classification could exert a broad impact on the public, particularly concerning national security perceptions. It signals that the government is actively monitoring entities deemed a threat, which might provide reassurance to some members of the public about protective measures against terrorism. However, the lack of a detailed explanation might also cause unease or skepticism about whether such actions are justified or effective.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Certain stakeholders, such as financial institutions and international partners, could be directly affected by this designation. Banks, for instance, require clear guidelines to comply with regulations that involve freezing assets or rejecting transactions linked to designated entities. Without detailed information from notices such as this, compliance can become challenging, leading to possible inadvertent infractions.

Meanwhile, communities linked to these regions might experience negative stereotyping or stigmatization due to the associations with terrorism. Such designations might foster unwarranted suspicion or discrimination against certain groups.

In conclusion, while the document establishes an update in terrorist designations, it raises several issues regarding transparency and clarity, leaving many readers, including affected parties, seeking more information to fully understand the implications of these government actions.