U.S. Embassy Issues Urgent Warning for Citizens in Syria
The American embassy in Syria has issued a critical advisory, urging all U.S. citizens to evacuate the country. This warning comes in light of an increased threat of attacks coinciding with the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holiday, which marks the conclusion of Ramadan.
Details of the Advisory
In a notice posted late Friday on the embassy’s website, officials cautioned that there could be potential attacks targeting various locations including “embassies, international organizations, and Syrian public institutions” within the capital, Damascus.
The embassy elaborated on the possible forms these attacks could take—ranging from individual assailants to armed groups employing explosive devices. The message was clear: “Leave Syria now,” it stated emphatically.
Current Travel Advisory Status
Syria currently holds a level 4 travel advisory from the State Department, indicating the highest risk category. U.S. citizens are strongly discouraged from traveling to the region for any reason, reflecting the significant dangers present.
Background Context
The U.S. embassy in Damascus has not operated since 2012, shortly after the onset of the civil war involving the regime of former President Bashar Assad and various rebel factions. After recent political upheaval, Assad has been ousted by opposition forces led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, with its leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, being named as the interim president of Syria.
The embassy’s advisory highlights continual threats including terrorism, civil disorder, and risks of kidnapping. “The U.S. government is unable to provide any routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Syria,” the notice explained. The protection of U.S. interests in Syria is currently managed by the Czech Republic.
Emergency Assistance Information
For Americans within Syria facing emergency situations, the embassy has directed them to reach out to the U.S. Interests Section of the embassy of the Czech Republic for assistance, underscoring the absence of direct U.S. governance in the region.