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