THE United States Department of State has issued a security warning to its citizens in Syria, cautioning them about an increased risk of terrorist attacks during the Eid al-Fitr holiday.
The advisory highlights potential threats to embassies, international organisations, and public institutions in the Syrian capital, Damascus.
The warning specifically mentions possible attack methods, including assaults by lone individuals, armed gunmen, and explosive devices. Given the heightened risk, the US government has urged its citizens to leave Syria immediately.
The travel advisory for Syria remains at Level 4: Do Not Travel, the highest risk category. The State Department has cited several security concerns, including terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, hostage-taking, armed conflict, and the possibility of detention without due process.
The US Embassy in Damascus has been closed since 2012, which limits the government’s ability to provide consular services. The Czech Republic currently acts as the protecting power for US interests in Syria.
American citizens in need of emergency assistance have been advised to contact the US Interests Section at the Czech Embassy in Damascus. The contact number within Syria is 0969-333644, while those calling from outside the country can reach the section at +963-969-333644.
Assistance is also available via email at USIS_damascus@embassy.mzv.cz. Additionally, US citizens may call 1-888-407-4747 from within the United States or +1-202-501-4444 from overseas for further support.
The State Department has advised US nationals still in Syria to avoid large crowds, public gatherings, and demonstrations, as they could become potential targets. Individuals have been urged to remain alert in locations commonly frequented by Westerners and to be prepared to shelter in place if necessary.
The advisory also recommends reviewing personal security plans, keeping mobile phones charged for emergency communication, and closely monitoring news updates for any security developments.
To ensure better preparedness, the US government has encouraged its citizens to enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program (STEP) to receive real-time security alerts.
The State Department has also recommended that individuals follow crisis updates on WhatsApp, where notifications can be activated by clicking the bell icon in the official US government channel.
