President Obama extends framework for Syria sanctions

President Barack Obama is extending the legal framework for continued sanctions against Syria. He is notifying Congress on Wednesday that Syria poses an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to U.S. national security and diplomatic goals, Associated Press reports.

The renewal comes two days before a special "national emergency" would have expired. The emergency declaration allows the president to impose a variety of punishments and controls.

Former President George W. Bush first imposed a state of national emergency in 2004, in response to Syrian repression in Lebanon and its support for foreign fighters battling the U.S. and other forces in Iraq. The state of emergency has been renewed annually.