REQUEST FOR PHYSICAL SECURITY ASSESSMENT TEAM

C O N F I D E N T I A L DAMASCUS 004588 SIPDIS SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR DS/CC, DS/IP/NEA, NEA/EX; NEA/ELA; OBO/OM/AM/NEA; PD/PMB/NPB E.O. 12958: DECL: 10/12/2015 TAGS: ASEC PGOV ABLD SY SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR PHYSICAL SECURITY ASSESSMENT TEAM Classified By: Charge d'Affaires Michael Corbin, per 1.4 b,d. ¶1. (C) Post appreciates Department's prompt reaction in dispatching DS agent Aylward who is serving a critical function supporting RSO at Embassy Damascus. RSO is currently involved in multiple efforts to investigate the attack on the Embassy and assess ways to make the Embassy safer. The SARG has introduced several security upgrades (septel) in the wake of the attack. Post also appreciates DS's efforts to obtain visas and readiness to move additional agents out to post, as well as the help NEA/ELA provided in obtaining the visas. ¶2. (C) As far as security upgrades already planned before the September 12 attack, we are aware of the scheduling of OBO security upgrades. However, given the seriousness of that attack, we seek an urgent assessment of Embassy security upgrades that can be implemented ASAP. RSO is conducting a thorough review of all security features at the Embassy. We seek the dispatch of a physical security assessment team, including OBO representation, to Damascus in order to achieve three missions: -- Consult with RSO and Mission leadership on any upgrades that can be taken in the wake of this attack; -- Determine which parts of OBO's security upgrade plan can be implemented immediately; and -- Assist RSO in preparing detailed options plans for the SARG on physical security measures that can be taken by SARG on the streets around the Embassy. ¶3. (C) The RSO is instituting additional security measures to protect Embassy personnel. But as he continues the investigation and coordination with the SARG, we need a physical security assessment team to be dispatched as soon as possible. When the names for this team become available, they should be transmitted to NEA/ELA and Embassy as soon as possible. We will work with NEA/ELA to ensure quick turn-around on visa issuance by the Syrian Embassy in Washington. CORBIN