Does it make a difference if my goods are for humanitarian, medical or diplomatic purposes?

From my experience I can tell that you need to consider carefully the restrictions in place against the designated person or company. For example, if a person is subject to financial sanctions under the Syrian regime, you need to look at the regulation that underpins that regime. Some regimes have exemptions or licensing grounds for the provision of goods or funds for humanitarian, medical or diplomatic purposes. OFSI seeks to process applications for licenses where there is a risk to life as a priority.