WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement in response to the new U.S. Department of Treasury designation of 18 individuals and five entities supporting ongoing violence committed by the government of Syria:

“I welcome the Treasury Department’s designation of 18 individuals and five entities for their support for the Syrian regime.  I am especially pleased that Russian entities and individuals are sanctioned under this announcement.  The wholesale slaughter of the Syrian people has gone on far too long, and, along with their Russian and Iranian enablers, Syria has been able to act with impunity.  That is why I look forward to re-introducing the Caesar Syrian Civilian Protection Act when Congress reconvenes in January.  Syria and those that support Syrian atrocities must be compelled to change their behavior and know that accountability awaits them when the carnage is cleared.”

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